AMBITIOUS plans to help catapult Chester Zoo into one of the world’s top five animal attractions have been formally handed to planners.

The facility has submitted planning applications for its ambitious £225m Natural Vision project.

They followed extensive consultation and include detailed plans for the Heart Of Africa biodome, together with the expansion of its main entrance and car park.

The Heart Of Africa would be a 34m high tropical biodome housing an African rainforest-themed sanctuary for gorillas, chimpanzees and other species.

The plans will now be considered by Cheshire West and Chester council.

Zoo director general Professor Gordon McGregor Reid said: “For us, a key part of the planning process was engaging with different organisations.”

Future phases may include a hotel and conservation college.


THE ECHO

Maybe you where at Madam Tussuad's animal display.

I once went to see the jaguars in their Jaguar sponsored enclosure - they were all hiding

I love Chester zoo. Can`t wait for the new dome to happen. (fingers crossed)

I'm gonna mention the carbon footprint just cos I'm a party pooper lol. I know the tourism will offset it but I can't help but imagine the biodome having exhibits wearing tee shirts with logos on them like "Buy now pay later". You just know eventually nature is gonna bite back.

Kids will love the giggledome!

I last went when I was young. I expect it to be tiny compared to then when I got next!

Everytime we go to Chester Zoo, i have to buy my missus 2 tickets...one to let her in and the other to get her out!!!!

LOL