Blackpool Zoo’s exotic bird enclosure is a first for groundworks specialist

What’s happening?

Poulton-based groundworks specialist Mark Bott has been sub-contracted to build a new walk-through experience which will enable visitors to get close to the attraction’s flock of Rainbow Lorikeet birds.

Up to 50 of the exotic Australian native birds will reside in the purpose built, covered aviary to be called Rainbow Landings.

Visitors will be able to feed them with pots of nectar on selected dates throughout the year.

What does it involve?

Mark said: “We’re building two lobbies to house the entrance and exit areas as well as a viewing area where the Lorikeets will be able to come down and feed.

“We’ve never done a job like this in a zoo, so it’s a bit of a different working environment for us.

“But it’s exciting to be part of the project which will create a new experience for visitors. When the contract was given to Greenspan they wanted to use a firm which was local to the zoo, so contacted us.”

What has he done before?

Mark’s previous projects have included designing and building a dementia garden at Clifton Hospital in St Annes.

The family-run business has also done work on caravan parks.

Rainbow Landings is being developed on land close to the Wallaby Walkabout.

What does the zoo say?

Luke Forster, head of the bird section at Blackpool Zoo, said: “Rainbow Landings is another exciting development that will allow visitors to get close to some magnificent birds.”

The scheme is part of a series of improvements for the zoo’s bird-based exhibits, including World of Wings and Silent Forest Aviaries, and is due to open in late spring.