Orville a star attraction as Dudley Zoo announces further revamp
Keith Harris and Orville dropped into Dudley Zoo to open new offices.
The pair, currently starring in panto Jack and the Beanstalk at Wolverhampton's Grand Theatre, opened the new facilities, where administration, finance, research and marketing staff will be based.
The 2,650sq ft complex also includes a conference room and archive department. It was created following a six-month refurbishment of the Tecton safari gift shop.
"Orville loves it here," said Keith. "The only trouble is I have to get two tickets, one to get him in and one to get him out again."
Administration, finance, research and marketing staff will be based at the 2,650sq ft complex which also includes a conference room and archive department.
It was created following a six-month refurbishment of the Tecton safari gift shop. Staff moved across from the former offices in The Broadway over recent months. Zoo chief executive Peter Suddock said: "It's wonderful to have modern offices to represent a world class organisation and the close proximity to the zoo makes it so much easier for staff to run the business."
The visit came as zoo bosses revealed further revamp plans as part of a wider transformation of the landmark site.
Just days after plans for a new-look entrance were unveiled, further plans in the pipeline include a £15,000 refurbishment of Reptile House, improvements for roadways and reviews of stock.
Mr Suddock unveiled a packed programme of works taking place at the Castle Hill attraction throughout the next few months.
The Reptile House refurbishment includes a new entrance, enclosures, signage and review of stock. A new walkway will also be created between Penguin Bay and Reptile House. A group of Gelada baboons will be moved to the banks next to the chairlift to create another point of interest for visitors.
There are plans to make repairs and resurface roadways across the 40 acre and build a public viewing platform over the tapir pool. The zoo's farm will also be revamped.
Mr Suddock added: "This heralds a major redevelopment programme for Dudley Zoo and we're all very excited. It's fantastic to see investment across the whole site."
