Yorkshire Wildlife Park aims to double size with £15m investment

A Yorkshire wildlife venue has announced that it has received a £15m investment as it aims to double its size and visitor numbers.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park, in Doncaster, received the investment from BGF, which invests in growing businesses.

The park is aiming to double its size, and to grow its annual visitor numbers from 750,000 to 1.5 million.

The investment has so far allowed the park to open new attractions and acquire new animals, including hyenas, red pandas and smooth-coated otters.

Alongside BGF, Lloyds Bank has also committed an £18m debt facility which will support the expansion of the existing park.

John Minion, CEO of Yorkshire Wildlife Park, commented: “Our founding mission at YWP was to create a dynamic wildlife experience that contributes to the conservation of biodiversity on a global scale.

“Thanks to the hard work of a talented and driven local team, we have developed an award-winning, interactive park with ground-breaking animal reserves and facilities that plays a vital role in both the local economy and international welfare programmes.

“We’re delighted to welcome BGF on board to support our plans to expand our offering to position YWP as a destination, providing one of the stand-out visitor experiences in the country.”

Barry Jackson, investor at BGF, commented: “Over the last eleven years, YWP has earned an international reputation for conservation, animal welfare and high-quality visitor experiences.

“John and the team have an ambitious and clear strategy for growth, and we’re delighted to be supporting the business as it expands its facilities to be able to rescue more animals and allow more visitors to be educated and inspired by its conservation efforts.”