There was an issue first thing with Paigntons booking system, which seems to have been fixed now. The issue was that the system would not allow a member to book more than once in the opening week. The staff online and on the phones are doing an incredible job!
Finally managed to book free tickets for Whipsnade! New ticketing system for members opened today, worked first time and done within 2 minutes, no waiting this time!
Just seen on the BBC that the lock-down has been extended in Scotland. Does this mean the Scottish opening dates published as above have been postponed..?
I don't think so - as far as I can tell it's just Nicola Sturgeon reiterating that none of Boris Johnson's announced changes today apply to Scotland (though it looks like the about-a-fortnight delay between an English change a Scottish change will carry on): Coronavirus - Two metres remains & schools to open fully - BBC News
Just in case people haven't seen it - the lifting of further lockdown restrictions includes "Indoor attractions where animals are exhibited, such as at zoos, aquariums, farms, safari parks and wildlife centres." being allowed to re-open.
I would guess that this will include zoos that are able to open already being able to open their indoor areas such as aquariums and reptile houses? If so hopefully visitor capacity can be increased to bring in further revenue. Also same for things like the cafes, gift shops etc
Only the Government could come out with a statement like - 'Indoor attractions where animals are exhibited, such as safari parks' Oh well...
Did you see that 50% of the tickets booked weren't used, no wonder they went so quick, and they are going fast again now Not booked yet, will give it time to see how things go
An email went round to ZSL members, outlining the new booking system. It also asked people not to block book, which has been happening, which both stops others getting a slot, and lowers potential income if slots are booked but not used. Members are now limited to one slot in any two week period.
Which to my mind is a great idea, bet there will be some that moan, but at least more members/fellows have a chance now , although they are being booked fast
Does anyone know what the latest announcement means for places that are completely indoor? Bugtopia at Rutland still don't think they'll be allowed to open
It could be that they mean it wouldn't be economic for them given the limits on visitors, if they're a very small site.
Now indoor areas can open it seems from the 4th in England, I wonder how cautions Zoos will be in terms of walkthroughs. I can see things like butterfly houses, reptile houses etc opening but maybe primate walkthroughs and farm/"petting" areas remaining closed for the time being.
