£100m boost for England tourism with new zoos and aquariums funding

Zoos and aquariums across England are set for a multi-million pound boost with the launch of new funding.

Animal Welfare Minister Lord Goldsmith announced this weekend that a new £100m fund will be made available to zoos and aquariums to support them throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Establishments covered by the Zoo Licensing Act, which have been able to reopen from June 15, will be able to bid for a portion of the £100m that has been made available.

The new funding sits alongside a range of existing support including the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, the Business Interruption Loan schemes and grant funding of up to £25k available through the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grant Fund.

Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Steve Barclay, commented: “Whilst zoos and aquariums are now able to reopen their doors, we know how difficult the past few months have been. That’s why we’ve been doing everything we can to support them.

“This extra £100m of funding will ensure those affected by the outbreak can continue to care for their animals as well as the important conservation and educational work.”