New zoo concept presented
The "Masterplan 2030+" zoo concept presented today was developed together with external consultants and the "Tierpark" working group and is an extension of the development concept from 2014. The aim of the new concept is to ensure the long-term survival of Chemnitz Zoo by increasing its attractiveness and boosting visitor numbers.
The growth strategy is based on three equally important pillars: Education, species conservation and visitor services. The zoo's unique amphibian exhibition is to be retained as a unique selling point and additionally expanded, for example through the breeding and rescue of endangered amphibians. At the same time, the vivarium also forms the starting point of the newly designed tour through the zoo under the motto: A journey through the history of the earth.
The thematic arc spans from amphibians to the age of the dinosaurs, the development of birds and mammals, the Ice Age, the domestication of animals and modern man. At each stage of history, animals are selected to bring the respective era to life in conjunction with educational programmes and activity stations.
After the amphibians symbolise the beginning of vertebrates, the era of the dinosaurs is presented in the form of excavation sites and a research camp. The historical era of mammal development begins in the subsequent walk-through lemur forest. In addition to monkeys, sloths and birds, hippos are also integrated into an underwater viewing area in front of and in the following tropical hall. A new, spacious tiger enclosure offers both the animals a place to retreat and visitors a view through large glass panes. The Ice Age epoch depicted here is complemented by an Ice Age playground, a treetop walkway and spacious communal animal enclosures. In the East African Rift Valley station, the cradle of mankind is presented in connection with animals such as zebras, meerkats, antelopes, wild asses and hyenas. This is followed by the largest playground in the zoo complex and access to the main catering area at the Pelzmühle. Finally, the domestication of the animals is presented in the hands-on farm and brought to life in a petting zoo. In the centre of the new zoo grounds there will be a catering facility in the African style of a lodge with changing offers.
The concept envisages more spacious enclosures, the communal keeping of different animals and, in some cases, walk-in enclosures. The focus will be on making it possible to experience and learn about animals, their habits and the overarching connections between species and climate protection. To this end, multimedia techniques will be increasingly used. The entrance area is being completely redesigned and the zoo school is being rebuilt.
The phased realisation of the new zoo concept amounts to a total of 39.6 million euros. The masterplan will be financed from the zoo's own funds, grants from the city or subsidies, as well as third-party funds from donations and sponsorship organisations. The remodelling and renovation work will take place during ongoing operations.
In June 2017, the company Pluswerte GmbH was awarded the contract to develop the master plan with a net order volume of 49,000 euros.