Rutland Sanctuary Zoo have announced that they will be closing their doors to the general public in an attempt to reduce running costs. This comes as UK home and business owners experience energy bill increases, and increase in food and fuel costs, and uncertainty with the fluctuating value of the GBP and turbulent leadership.

The sanctuary zoo reduced their opening hours in September 2022 due to the rise in energy costs, opening only at the weekend in an attempt to reduce some of their running costs.

The zoo, previously called Bugtopia, was taken over in September 2020 and rebranded Rutland Sanctuary Zoo, reopening in May 2021 after being delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The current owners are a married couple, Jez and Joanna, who were gifted the facility by the previous owners after contacting them about an animal in their care.

They have run the facility through recent lockdowns, and have been a place of learning for both the young and old, but can no longer meet the demands placed on many business owners with recent running cost increases.

The duo announced: "We are heart broken to announce that we are having to close our doors at this time due to the energy increase crisis that has effect us in such a detrimental way, we are sadly not alone in this as other little family zoos have been forced into the same situation and that's not ignoring the effect it is having on everyone's day to day life.

"We are forever grateful for all the support and love from all our friends, family and visitors towards each of ourselves and our charges."

Image courtesy of Rutland Sanctuary Zoo.

Joanna and Jen added: "If by some miracle there is a potential change in the increase and that happens over night then we shall update you all.

"Most importantly, to reassure everyone, all our animals are safe and still our highest priority to ensure they have a secure and safe full life ahead of them."