***UPDATE - Cumbria Safari Zoo's management team have submitted a planning application to open a NEW ZOO in Tebay!

Join our action to OBJECT to this planning application TODAY***

16th December 2024

After nearly a decade of work investigating Cumbria Safari Zoo (formerly South Lakes Safari Zoo), and campaigning for its closure due to the numerous ongoing animal welfare and safety concerns present there over the years, we are thrilled to announce its long-overdue closure! 

This marks a significant milestone in Freedom for Animals history, and is a result that could only have been achieved thanks to the incredible drive and determination of our supporters and animal advocates!

For years, Cumbria Safari Zoo has been synonymous with neglect and suffering. Under its previous director, David Gill, nearly 500 animals tragically lost their lives in just three years, while severe infrastructure failings led to the heartbreaking death of a keeper. Despite any claimed changes in leadership over the years, animal welfare issues have persisted, as documented in inspections carried out by the local authority, DEFRA, and independent animal protection organisations such as Freedom for Animals and the Born Free Foundation.

Freedom for Animals, alongside dedicated local campaigners and other concerned animal protection groups, have tirelessly pushed for the zoo’s closure, and to send the animals to appropriate sanctuaries. Through detailed legal reports, undercover investigations, protests, petitions signed by thousands of people, and an open letter backed by over 33 animal advocates, we urged Westmorland and Furness Council to take decisive action. That is why today, in light of this incredible news, we celebrate!

A Step Towards a Better Future?

Although we are still yet to uncover the zoo’s plans for closure, and what will happen to the animals they hold captive there, the end of Cumbria Safari Zoo as we know it is a huge step in our fight for animal freedom. We are calling on the local authority to now ensure that every animal at the zoo is rehomed to appropriate sanctuaries, where they can receive the care they deserve and live free from suffering and exploitation.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported this important campaign. Whether you signed a petition, held or attended a protest, or shared our posts - you have all been a vital part of this outcome! Together, we have shown that collective action can achieve meaningful change.

Looking Ahead

Our main concern is, and always has been, for the animals at the zoo. We are aiming to find out as much information as possible on the zoo’s closure plans, and we will update our supporters in due course. We are aware of a holiday cottage site in Tebay, owned by the individuals associated with Cumbria Safari Zoo, and will be keeping a close eye on any unacceptable plans to relocate animals to this site. 

This victory is also reminder that our work is far from over. Freedom for Animals remains committed to ending the exploitation of animals in captivity. We will continue to campaign and fight for the freedom of all animals held in these terrible conditions. 

To everyone who fought for this moment: thank you. Let this victory inspire us to keep fighting for a world where all animals are free from harm and exploitation.

You can help us continue to fight for the freedom of animals cruelly held captive for entertainment by donating here!