T: 01492 532938
E: info@welshmountainzoo.org
Old Highway, Colwyn Bay, Conwy,
North Wales, LL28 5UY
Strong Year for National Zoo of Wales – Poised for Exciting Developments
- 13th January 2025
- Kaitlyn Jenkins
The Welsh Mountain Zoo – National Zoological Society of Wales is reflecting on a year of resilience and progress. Despite challenging circumstances faced by many businesses, we are delighted to report a 6% increase in guest footfall. This milestone coincides with navigating the largest and most significant internal restructure in the Zoo’s history, achieved thanks to the ongoing support of our visitors, donors, and community.
Earlier in 2024, the Zoo welcomed Chris Mitchell as Chief Executive, a major appointment for the Zoo and the first non-Jackson family member to take on this high-profile position; followed by the appointment of Steven Lester as Director of Business Development and Operations. These appointments mark an important shift in the Zoo’s wider strategic vision as it aims to grow and evolve under an ambitious growth strategy to be rolled out across the coming decade.
A much-loved Welsh institution, the Welsh Mountain Zoo houses over 60 species, employs 41 staff, including additional seasonal staff, and is open every day of the year with the exception of Christmas Day. 2024 saw a number of animal births at the Zoo, each an important development under the Zoo’s commitment as a leading conservation organisation.
This ongoing commitment to conservation drives the Zoo’s future developments with projects in the development pipeline including habitat construction for animals of greater conservation relevance and large habitats themed to resemble particular ecosystems.
Chris Mitchell explained: “2024 saw some major changes internally, centered around our management and structure. With the support of our board and feedback from our local community, we now have in place the foundations of an incredibly exciting plan that will build on the Zoo’s important legacy to date.
“The goals for the Zoo are centered around ensuring that the charity is able to generate enough income to cover our expenditure but also to grow the crucial conservation and education work we do. We need to be the trusted voice on conservation, not only in our local area but further afield as well. Measurable conservation outcomes are supported by ever growing numbers of visitors who have a great day out at one of the most picturesque zoos in the UK. Reaching that balance is the key and we have a realistic, tangible, yet ambitious plan in realising our aspirations. We look forward to keeping our guests updated on these developments.”
