Animal campaigners will protest over plans for a new Nottinghamshire animal sanctuary. A representative of the Animal Rebellion campaign group has said a number of local people will be holding a peaceful demonstration, opposing the plans for a large animal sanctuary on land near Station House in Trowell.
The demonstration is planned outside of Broxtowe Borough Council's offices in Beeston on Wednesday, February 1 at 6.30pm. The protestors said the aim of the demonstration will be to encourage the councillors to reject the project, when it comes to Broxtowe Borough Council's planning committee in the future. Guests at the sanctuary, named the Broxtowe Retreat, would be able to look into the reserves of rescued endangered animals and enjoy a themed spa and restaurant, if the huge project is approved.
A tropical spa complete with rainforest inhabitants is planned, as well as a panoramic African water-hole themed restaurant and function venue. Visitors will be able to stay in 27 guest lodges, each with unique views into the expansive animal habitats, according to CEO of proposed Broxtowe Retreat and zookeeper Reece Oliver.
The Animal Rebellion representative however claimed a "large number of local residents" have significant concerns with the application. They argued the proposal would destroy and fragment wildlife habitats, and that its location within a flood plain would increase not only the risk of flooding, but also increase the risk of zoonotic disease spreading to or from wildlife.
The protestors argued the proximity of the site to a public footpath and playing fields was a safety concern, both for people breaking into the sanctuary and animals breaking out. They also alleged Mr Oliver had "allowed" two big cats to breed in captivity and questioned safety procedures at his sites.
CEO of the proposed Broxtowe Retreat and zookeeper Reece Oliver previously explained it would be operated by an experienced team of experts to the highest animal welfare standards. He said the project would be a "shining example" of environmental design, and said he would do everything possible to support wildlife.
"If approved, the wildlife park in Trowell will provide an amazing habitat for endangered and rescued animals and will also be a shining example of environmentally responsible, conscientious and sympathetic design. We're delighted to offer a new use to the former forge site turned cow-field, that will enhance its remaining natural features and preserve its flood characteristics whilst also boosting the local economy in a carbon-negative, energy-positive and fully-sustainable way.
“I don’t believe in keeping animals in captivity – I’d love to live in a world where wild animals don’t need saving and where species aren’t endangered, but until this becomes the reality I’m going to do everything I possibly can to support wildlife rescue and conservation. That’s what this application is all about.”
"Our application features extensive use of solar panels to generate more energy than the site consumes, ground-source heat-pumps for super-efficient heating and cooling, and water-saving features that should require no external mains or sewer connections.
"I don't think there's ever been such an environmentally-focused planning application in Broxtowe. Our whole ethos has been to 'do no harm' and to make a really positive difference wherever we can. It wouldn't make much sense to design an animal conservation facility that contributes to de-forestation or melts the ice caps after all."
The protest will take place on a day of wider strikes across the country.
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