They are still a work in progress to make the Bristol Zoo project bigger and better

Bristol Zoo Project says improving accessibility for those with disabilities and sensory processing needs is “a priority” as it builds on its existing site in South Gloucestershire. The conservation zoo, which was previously known as the Wild Place Project, is located on a 136-acre site just off junction 17 of the M5, off the Cribbs Causeway.

Last year, the Wild Place Project was famous for relocating Bristol Zoo from its old site in Clifton, which is now earmarked for housing. The South Gloucestershire site is over 11 times the size of the Clifton site and development is underway to make the new site bigger and better.

Currently, 78% of the zoo’s animals are endangered or critically endangered and part of conservation programs. Bristol Zoological Society, which runs the zoo, wants to increase this number to 90% by 2035.

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While work to improve the site and add more exhibits, including the new Central African Forest, continues to materialize, work to improve accessibility for those with additional needs or disabilities is also growing and keep going. This is included in the new projects due to open in the next few months, including the new play area.

“Explorers Basecamp” is a multi-level adventure play area for children of all ages, featuring specialized wheelchair-friendly trampolines, a wheelchair-accessible roundabout and slides. Set over three levels, it will give children the chance to play and explore while learning about conservation.

Rio Whittaker, Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Officer at Bristol Zoo Project, said: “We are extremely excited to be opening Explorers Basecamp this summer. We wanted to create an accessible adventure play area that children of all ages, needs and abilities could enjoy.

“It will include ground trampolines, a wheelchair accessible roundabout and family swing. The main structure will also be wheelchair accessible to the first level, where children will find sensory games, a guessing game and companion slide that can be transferred from a wheelchair.

“Up in the structure are several sensory activities, a swing bridge and a hammock that will provide a wonderful opportunity to relax and enjoy nature at a height. We hope to continue to grow our accessible play offering with our future development, with feedback from disabled visitors, families and community partners.”

The site, which consists of wider paths and is concrete-free, has also been designed to be more accessible to everyone. Rio Whittaker said: “Continuing to improve accessibility across the site is a priority for us as we build a new conservation zoo at Bristol Zoo Project and it is a work in progress and we have clear plans to achieve this, with the work being delivered in stages.

“This includes creating wider footpaths and gravel walking surfaces that are firm, smooth and uniform for all users. Rest areas will be added at regular intervals to support visitors with reduced mobility.

“A range of seating options will also include seats with armrests and backs at different heights, as well as seats that allow wheelchair users to move onto a bench. Seating and other furniture will be placed away from access routes where possible to avoid creating hazards for the visually impaired.

“Signage around the zoo will be designed to be as accessible as possible, with simple, legible fonts and clear information, using different formats such as text, symbols and images. In our car parks, designated accessible parking bays will also be located close to the main pedestrian access to the site, with pedestrian routes provided between these bays and the zoo entrance.”

A sensory map is now available which highlights areas of the site that may affect those with sensory needs as well as quiet areas, an accessibility guide is available on request and sensory bags have also recently been introduced.

Sensory bags are designed for the neuro-divergent, but can be requested by anyone. Rio Whittaker said: “The bags are designed to provide ways to improve focus and create relaxation for children and adults who are neuro-divergent or have sensory processing needs. The bags include a range of items including earmuffs, binoculars, fidget spinners and sensory items as well as our sensory map and social story (which helps families plan their day).

The Bristol Zoo Project is also partnering with 53 local community groups and charities to help everyone, even if they can’t make it to the zoo, experience nature. The Access to Nature scheme offers funded educational visits, community visits and community membership.

In the first six months of the scheme, over 350 children participated through an educational visit and over 250 adults and children participated in a community visit. More than 550 people have benefited from the community membership so far.

The scheme works with organizations such as Bristol Children’s Hospital and Teenage Cancer Trust to fund the experience of vulnerable people. One school that worked with the zoo, Easton CE Academy, said: “The children have a better understanding of animal groups and how people influence and try to improve outcomes for animals.”

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