Luxury guest lodges planned for West Midland Safari Park as part of new redevelopment

The Bewdley attraction has this month submitted redevelopment plans to Wyre Forest District Council in a bid to improve animal facilities and improve the overall guest experience.

Eight luxury lodges could be built on the boundaries of the animal reserves and could be open by June 2020 if the proposals are given the green light.

It would also see new habitats created for the safari park's African elephants and cheetahs.

The planning submission, which was submitted to Wyre Forest District Council last week, details the first phase of a long-term development planned by the new owners of the attraction.

The safari park was taken over by French leisure provider the Looping Group in December 2018 and 25 jobs were cut in April this year.

Building work could commence as early as October, if the scheme is approved.

Darren Chorley, the park's managing director, said: "This exciting new development will see new facilities being built for our African elephants and cheetahs, creating habitats that are as close to the species’ natural environment as possible.

"Working closely with our wildlife team, we have ensured that these environments are stimulating and enriching, giving shelter and 24-hour access to both indoor and outdoor spaces.

“Integrated into the new exhibits will be luxury, exclusive lodges, designed to give the occupants an up-close and personal overnight wildlife experience like no other. Guests will be able to extend their stay by booking overnight accommodation at one of eight lodges which will sit on the boundaries of the reserves, with views overlooking the elephant and cheetah areas.

"We hope this represents the start of an exciting new future at West Midland Safari Park.”

Around four years ago the park was given the go-ahead for an £80 million expansion featuring a 250-bed hotel and water park, however the plans never came to fruition.