Original home of Chester Zoo animals could be transformed into large events and wedding venue

Chester Zoo is looking to proceed with the next phase of its plans to revamp the original site where zoo founder George Mottershead first showcased his private animal collection in 1930.

Having already revitalised Oakfield House into popular restaurant The Oakfield, the zoo is now turning its attention to the old Stables Block building, which in 1931 housed such animals as leopards, lions, chimpanzees, moneys, lemurs, penguins, vultures, snakes and crocodiles.

Ironically, as the zoo has grown from strength to strength in the following decades, spreading into the acres of land surrounding the original site, the Stable Block has been left behind, with its current purpose being merely storage and maintenance offices and workshops.

But now the zoo is looking to give the Grade II listed building a fresh purpose by transforming it into a venue suitable to host events and weddings for up to 380 people.

The proposed look of the revamped 380-capacity Stable Block which would be used to host weddings and events. Picture: Planning document.

Plans have been submitted to Cheshire West and Chester Council, with planners saying that as part of the zoo's strategic development plan, proceeds from such events would help to boost its conservation efforts in the zoo and across the globe.

A masterplan had previously been given the green light in November 2019, but the onset of the pandemic had delayed development work.

The revised plans seek an extension to the Stable Block, which is located near where the Asiatic lions used to be at the zoo, and near The Oakfield building.

The Oakfield at Chester Zoo, which was once the home of founder George Mottershead, was transformed into an award-winning venue in 2018.

The extension would, planners say, provide interconnecting event and reception rooms with the spaces in the Stable Block providing supporting facilities, and would create an enclosed courtyard space.

In a heritage, design and access statement, chartered architects and historic building consultants Donald Insall Associates said: "It is the role the stable block played in the formation of Chester Zoo in the 1930s and the manner with which the spaces and courtyard were used to house the Mottersheads' original animal collection which is of highest significance and of value to the public at large.

"This significance has been eroded during the second half of the 20th century, firstly through its use as maintenance offices and workshops and secondly as the zoo has expanded it has turned its back on the building with no public access and a build-up of modern structures around.

The proposed look of the revamped 380-capacity Stable Block which would be used to host weddings and events. Picture: Planning document.

"Despite this, the alterations to the stable block have been relatively minor; its original plan form is still readily discernible and much fabric of high significance remains."

It added the relocation of the lion habitat and the removal of the monorail in recent years had presented "a great opportunity" to reconnect the Stable Block with its setting and the main Oakfield House.

As part of the work, modern additions to the building would be demolished and the building would be refurbished, with the proposed event space being 352 square metres.

As befitting the zoo's conservation efforts and its mission to be carbon net zero and a zero waste operation by 2030, the revamped Stable Block would have all the necessary eco-friendly measures.

Planners added: "The reuse of the building from a maintenance yard to a building that the public can interact with through events and weddings ensures that the Stable Block becomes the heart of a social and civic purpose."

It added that by being able to provide such events, the revamped facility could "help make a real difference to the future of endangered species worldwide by raising income to fund vital conservation in the UK and across the world."

Chester Zoo's website currently offers couples the chance to tie the knot at The Oakfield, which has a capacity for up to 80 day guests or 120 night guests. Events such as business conferences or meetings have also been held there, and the venue can be hired out privately for occasions such as anniversaries and big birthdays.

Comments on the application, reference numbers 21/04555/FUL and 21/04556/LBC, can be made to Cheshire West and Chester Council by January 14.