Hampshire County Council

Executive Member - Recreation and Heritage Item 12

20 January 2005

Financial Assistance to Voluntary Organisations and other Bodies - Marwell Zoological Park, Colden Common

Report of the Director of Recreation and Heritage

Contact: Mike Wickenden ext. 6007 e-mail: [email protected]

1. Introduction

1.1 The Marwell Preservation Trust has committed to provide a new Snow Leopard enclosure at Marwell Zoological Park, Colden Common near Winchester. The overall cost is in the region of £500,000 and a Snow Leopard Appeal has been launched to assemble the necessary funds. The Leader of the Council has been approached for a contribution to the appeal and he has asked that the Executive Member for Recreation and Heritage makes the decision as Mrs Lin Thornber is a trustee of the organisation concerned.

2. Background

2.1 The Honorary Director of the Trust, Dr. John Knowles OBE, states that the present enclosure, now nearly 30 years old, is beyond further refurbishment and at the end of its useful life.

2.2 The new enclosure, which has been the subject of extensive design consultations, will provide a simulated Himalayan habitat with many new features. Public viewing and interpretation will be extensive.

2.3 The Park itself is a successful and much valued visitor destination in Hampshire that contributes both to Lifelong Learning and the local economy.

Recommendation

A contribution of £1,000 towards the new enclosure is recommended from the Policy and Resources budget.

Section 100 D - Local Government Act 1972 - background papers

The following documents disclose facts or matters on which this report, or an important part of it, is based and has been relied upon to a material extent in the preparation of this report.

NB the list excludes:

1. Published works

2. Documents which disclose exempt or confidential information as defined in the Act.

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