Taronga Zoo Sydney gets approval for $14m reptile centre despite NIMBYs
A new facility at the city’s oldest zoo is hoped to inspire the next generation of conservationists – despite protests from NIMBYs.
NSW
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A new facility at the city’s oldest zoo is hoped to inspire the next generation of conservationists, despite protests from locals.
Planning Minister Anthony Roberts has given the green light for Taronga Zoo Sydney to build a $14 million amphibian and reptile conservation centre in Mosman.
The centre – due for completion in 2023 – will replace the zoo’s Reptile World, also known as the Serpentaria, which will soon be demolished to make way for a new wildlife hospital.
Nearly 3 billion animals were killed or displaced by the black summer bushfires in 2019/20, including reptile and amphibian species.
Mr Roberts said “this new centre will ensure the ongoing welfare of some special and uniquely Australian species, such as the critically endangered Bellinger River snapping turtle and iconic corroboree frog”.
“Taronga is such an important part of Sydney, not only in its role of providing care for more
than 4000 animals but also in being an amazing place for the public to explore and learn
about the natural world,” Mr Roberts said.
“It will bring guests eye-to-eye with unbelievable animals, help spark a connection and inspire action for years to come.”
The approval comes despite accusations of overdevelopment at the zoo, with waterfront residents saying new facilities have created traffic problems and replaced trees with “glass and bricks”.
A newly built eco-resort also proved controversial with Mosman Council.
The zoo recently injected $16m into the kangaroo and wallaby “walk-through experience”, underwater viewing of platypus and improvements to the nocturnal exhibition.
Environment Minister James Griffin said the new reptile building will allow Taronga staff to continue their work, leading conservation efforts of reptiles and amphibians, along with countless other species threatened in the wild.
“This project will increase Taronga’s capability to save endangered species, educate the
public and respond to wildlife emergencies – of which there are more than 1500 cases per
year,” Mr Griffin said.
“Taronga Zoo staff work tirelessly to create an environment which protects animals of all
shapes and sizes and as a government, we’re pleased to be able to support them in their
efforts to remain on the cutting edge of conservation.”
Taronga has rapidly been expanding since Sydney Zoo opened its doors in December 2019.
Sydney Zoo, located 33km west of the CBD near Blacktown, has been poaching visitors who until then had only one option.
Construction on the amphibian and reptile conservation centre is expected to begin in mid-year and will create around 800 jobs.
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Originally published as Taronga Zoo Sydney gets approval for $14m reptile centre despite NIMBYs
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