Longleat safari to build 'dangerous animals' enclosure

African wild dogs weigh up to 36kg and are specialised pack hunters

A new enclosure to house "dangerous animals" at a safari park has been given the go-ahead.

Wiltshire Council approved the planning application on Thursday to build the secure habitat at Longleat Safari and Adventure Park.

It will house African wild dogs, also known as painted dogs, an endangered species native to sub-Saharan Africa.

Longleat said it hoped the attraction would help boost visitor numbers and support its animal conservation work.

Longleat was the world's first drive-through Safari Park to open outside of Africa in 1966

According to the application, the Longleat estate has seen a reduced investment over the past three years following the Covid-19 pandemic and the cost of living crisis.

Difficult financial times have led to a decline in its main client base - young families - visiting the park.

The application states that "new attractions provide an important marketing opportunity, driving both new and repeat visitors".

Works will include the demolition of existing farm animal display structures and the creation of a public viewing area, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The African wild dogs will be kept near the entrance to the park, adjacent to a pre-existing area known as the 'African Village', which exhibits giraffes, zebras, and ostriches.

The enclosure will be surrounded by secure fencing measuring 8ft (2.5m) high with a 50cm angled top section.