Oxfordshire crocodile zoo set to expand
Crocodiles of the World near Carterton, say it's needed to cater for the “growing in size” of their animals.
Fresh plans have been lodged to introduce a crocodile house to an Oxfordshire town as a group seeks to cater for the “growing in size” of their animals.
Applicant Crocodiles of the World (COTW), of Burford Road near Carterton, has submitted a proposal to West Oxfordshire District Council for new housing for their 35 Nile Crocodiles.
The building would be constructed adjacent to the company’s existing crocodile house and and will increase overall parking on site by around 40 spaces.
An applicant planning paper says: “The group of 35 Nile Crocodiles are one of the star attractions at COTW.
“The proposal is to add a duplicate building next to the existing building to cater for these animals, and retain their star billing.
“It is not envisioned that this proposal will lead to any increase in visitor numbers and therefore there will be no additional traffic.”
A new toilet facility is also proposed for the south side of the new building as well as a walkway extension to give visitors a circular walkway.
The applicant adds: “Crocodiles of the World has established itself as one of the main local visitor attractions of west Oxfordshire and as such has a high level of standards to maintain.
“This proposal is a necessary step in improving animal welfare and to avoid overcrowding of species, and we urge the council to support the proposal.”