Chester Zoo confirms closure of one of its animal exhibits

Kate Lally

12 June 2024 at 2:56 am·1-min read

A much-loved animal exhibit at Chester Zoo will soon close for good.

The zoo is closing its aquarium building, which dates back to 1952, and is currently home to seahorses, brittle stars, blind fish, pipefish, anemone and clownfish, as well as "unique wildlife", including coral. The ECHO understands Chester Zoo members have been informed of the decision for a second time this week, with the aquarium due to close in 2026.

The letters read: “With such advancements in building methods, technology and requirements for modern zoos, our expert team of structural engineers agree that from 2026 our aquatic species in the aquarium will be finding new habitats to flourish in, under the care of our dedicated aquatic team.

“For the last 25 years we have been developing other aquatic habitats throughout the zoo, teeming with many different species. You can find these in places like Spirit of the Jaguar, Monsoon Forest, the Okapi House and the elephant house.”

Chester Zoo is home to more than 31,000 animals, that live across 128 acres of zoological gardens. Apart from the aquarium, there are many other animal exhibits, including the nature reserve, the Asiatic lion habitat, and the "House of Sumatra".

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