Twycross Zoo conservation zone to feature orangutan habitat

The UK Government is investing £18 million towards a new £25 million game-changing Global Conservation Centre at Twycross Zoo.

The project will include a 200-seat lecture theatre that will overlook a new Bornean orangutan forest habitat. Other facilities will consist of research and teaching spaces, a science laboratory and accommodation for visiting experts and students.

Dr Rebecca Biddle, Chief Conservation Officer at Twycross Zoo, said: “The unrelenting pressure that we face from the dual climate and biodiversity loss crises, pose a serious threat to the survival of our planet.

“Our conservation efforts need to be bigger, bolder and more united. Zoos are being called on to do more in this mission, and the Global Conservation Centre is our answer to that call.

“Uniquely designed and positioned to allow international conservationists to work in connection with the natural world, we believe that being alongside the species we are working to save will offer unrivalled opportunities to study, learn and develop solutions for endangered wildlife.”

The Centre is due to be complete in late 2026.