ZEBRAS grazing the grasslands of the Vale, ostriches, African Crane, Meerkats, Red River Hogs and Ringtailed Limas too.
No, this isn’t some kind of April Fool’s joke in August but a distinct possibilities if one man’s plans for a Heart of England Wildlife Park take off – and it could all become a reality by Easter next year.
The animal lover behind it is Redditch resident Martin Blyth, a teacher who admits that since the age of four he has wanted to work with animals.
Now he hopes to make that dream come true with two locations chosen as possible homes to the wildlife park, one in Redditch, the other in the neighbouring Wychavon district.
And although the Redditch location is in prime position, Martin hasn’t ruled out the possibility of bringing his vision to the Vale.
“I’m a teacher currently in education management and I’ve already told my colleagues the only way I’d quit my job is to start a zoo and that’s what I intend to do,” said Martin, aged 28.
The emphasis will be on conservation and education and he’s inviting local people to become part of the adventure too if it’s given the go-ahead.
There’s a range of membership packages and a £300,000 crowdfunding drive – which has raised £3,000 in 24 hours – to bring the African Savannah to the county.
The plan is to develop the zoo in three phases, covering 30 acres in total, creating a tourist attraction and providing local jobs for local people.
“The aim is to make it a walk through safari, a park without bars or cages for everyone to enjoy,” said Martin.
Visit www.hofewildlifepark.com for more.
