After receiving £19.9m in government funding, Twycross Zoo in Leicestershire, is to build a research and conservation centre.
The funding was announced in the Autumn Budget as part of the government’s levelling up agenda. The National Science and Conservation Centre will be located next to Twycross Zoo. It will be a purpose-built destination, centred of the science and education of conservation.
The centre will enable researchers from around the world to study endangered species in naturalistic environments. The facility will support conservationists and scientists in research and the teaching of conservation.
The work carried out at the National Science and Conservation Centre will be focused on animal welfare, conservation, biosciences, public engagement with science and STEM activities.
Dr Sharon Redrobe, CEO of Twycross Zoo, commented on the opening of the centre: “We are delighted to hear that our bid for the government’s levelling up fund has been successful and without a doubt this funding will make a huge difference to the conservation of endangered species and our planet.
“Not only is this centre critical in the development of solutions to address the global extinction crisis but it will safeguard and create high skilled local jobs, investment, and increased tourism to our area, attracting international scientists,” Dr Redrobe added.
