A popular zoo in Hertfordshire has confirmed it will reopen to the public on April 12 under the government’s road map out of lockdown.

Paradise Wildlife Park in Broxbourne says it “cannot wait” to open its doors to visitors after it was forced to shut again during England’s third coronavirus lockdown.

Under the government’s road map out of lockdown, outdoor attractions and settings such as zoos are allowed to reopen from April 12.

Several safety measures are in place at Paradise Wildlife Park, including a one-way system as well as additional sanitising stations.

There is a pay by card system in place and the park says it will not be accepting cash.

Takeaway food will be available in the outdoor seating areas, while masks must also be worn in any indoor areas.

There will also be a maximum number of visitors on site per day to avoid mass crowds, while a booking system is in place to ensure a staggered entrance of visitors to the park evenly over the course of the day.

A statement from the animal park said: “Paradise Wildlife Park cannot wait to open their gates once again to the public! Make sure to visit the Land of the Tigers habitat, which only just opened in October 2020.

“The World of Dinosaurs are also back open if you’re feeling adventurous, as well as over 800 animals to enjoy at Paradise Wildlife Park.”

It also warned people to expect changes at the park in the next few months, with changes having been made to the Jaguar habitat and Sun Bear Heights habitat.

The statement added: “While outside the zoo, life seemed to have slowed down, the same cannot be said for inside the zoo. Behind closed doors, the building teams, garden teams, construction workers have all been busy bees to get the latest developments of the park spick and span.

“There has been major changes to the Jaguar habitat, and the new Sun Bear Heights habitat has made leaps and bounds since the initial announcement. So please be aware that as you wander the park in the coming months there may be some changes to expect.

“Both habitats are due to open in the summer time if all goes to plan and there are no significant disruptions along the way. Paradise Wildlife Park really appreciate your patience and understanding over the past year and how you have coped with the constant changes.”

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