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Zoological Society of London (Leases) Bill - Sitting 1

28 February 2024

Proposing MP
Edward Leigh Con
Gainsborough
Type
Public Bill Committee

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement discusses the Zoological Society of London (Leases) Bill and its aim to amend the Crown Estate Act 1961 to extend lease terms for land in Regent’s Park. Edward Leigh discusses the Zoological Society of London (Leases) Bill, which aims to extend ZSL's lease on Regent's Park from 60 years to 150 years. The statement addresses the Zoological Society of London (Leases) Bill, discussing the need to extend lease terms to ensure long-term stability and growth for the organisation. The statement discusses the Zoological Society of London's need for a long-term lease to secure external financing for updating the zoo and its facilities without incurring public debt.

Action Requested

Bob Blackman proposes that colleagues support the Bill to ensure the long-term future of London Zoo, which contributes significantly to conservation efforts, education, and local economy. He also thanks the Government and Department for Culture, Media and Sport for their support.

Key Facts

  • The Bill seeks to amend the Crown Estate Act 1961.
  • London Zoo welcomes over a million visitors each year, including more than 80,000 schoolchildren.
  • Each year, the zoo contributes £24 million to the local economy.
  • In 2021-22 alone, ZSL spent over £17.5 million on conservation sites and field conservation programmes.
  • The Zoo is home to 20,000 animals.
  • The current lease limit under the Crown Estate Act 1961 is 60 years.
  • The proposed extension would increase the maximum lease tenure to 150 years.
  • ZSL has no Government grant and operates with high running costs due to climate requirements for animals.
  • London Zoo houses 16 species that are extinct in the wild and over 100 seriously endangered species.
  • The ZSL lease was most recently renewed for 60 years in 2021.
  • Establishing a longer-term lease will bring ZSL in line with other similar organisations, including the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew.
  • London Zoo is the 10th most visited attraction in London and contributes over £24 million annually to the local economy and over £54 million to the national economy.
  • ZSL needs to raise external finance to update the zoo and its facilities.
  • The lease under consideration is for a period longer than 150 years.
  • Matthew Gould, a constituent of the speaker, played a crucial role in supporting this initiative.
  • The process has taken about 18 months to reach this stage.
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