Liberal Democrats call on government to provide financial support for Dudley Zoo

Following the reports that Dudley Zoo is losing around £100,000 per week since the beginning of lockdown, Dudley Liberal Democrats are calling on the government to provide financial support to the leisure and tourism industry before it is too late.

Dudley Zoo was forced to close in late March, but still face huge operational costs in order to look after for the animals in their care.

The lack of any income from ticket sales, and a lack of support from government has put the much beloved site's future at risk.

Dudley Zoo, which has been open since 1937, has set up a JustGiving page in an attempt to raise funds to support their operating costs through the crisis.

Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Dudley North Ian Flynn said:

"I know from own visits to the zoo how important it is to local parents and grandparents with small children.

"I'm calling on the Government to bring forward guidance to allow for the safe reopening of zoos as possible, and step in with financial support if it is needed

"Dudley Zoo is a major asset to Dudley's local economy and a key employer in the region. It needs support now to guarantee its future"