Harlow Council has issued the following update on Pets’ Corner in Harlow Town Park following today’s announcement that zoos can reopen from 15 June 2020 as long as they are Covid-19 secure: “Although the main enclosed facility at Pets’ Corner has been closed since March, residents have still been able to visit and see some of their favourite animals in the outside paddocks within the town park. We are looking at taking more of the animals, particularly some of the smaller animals, out to this area in the coming weeks. This will include talks and questions and answer sessions with the various animal keepers. While the main part of the facility has been closed to the public, staff have continued to care and exercise the animals on a daily basis including taking animals to and from the paddocks. We have also used this time to carry out maintenance and improvement works to the animal enclosures and buildings.
“The main part of Pets’ Corner including the shop will remain closed for now. This is because we must take time to consider what measures need to be put in place to protect both visitors, residents and our volunteers from the virus. We will only reopen Pets’ Corner fully when it is safe to do so for all and it is Covid-19 secure. We are reviewing government public health guidance and the requirements of our zoo licence. This will take a few weeks to consider fully. Work includes looking at enhancing the cleaning of public areas as well as introducing a one-way system and social distancing rules. This may prove difficult as the facility is fairly small in comparison to a traditional zoo. This is why we need to consider all measures carefully before we reopen fully to the public.”
Residents can stay updated on the Pets’ Corner Facebook page and the council’s website www.harlow.gov.uk
