A zoo has announced plans to expand its park with the addition of a new animal enclosure as part of a multi-million pound investment.

To celebrate its 60th anniversary, Colchester Zoo has announced several projects for long-term development.

The future visions include a new lion habitat as part of the expansion of the current Edge of Africa area - with plans to create a holistic African adventure. 

The zoo is currently home to one male African lion called Bailey who arrived from Woburn Safari Park in 2010, along with two lionesses. 

The new enclosure is inspired by the biodiversity of the African scrubThe new enclosure is inspired by the biodiversity of the African scrub (Image: Colchester Zoo) READ MORE: Colchester Zoo announce death of beloved animal

A spokesman for Colchester Zoo said: "This is a project that the zoo has been wanting to start for several years but following the effects of the pandemic, it has been delayed due to not being in a position for such an investment."

In the future the zoo hopes to become part of a breeding programme with an introduction of a new pride once the habitat is developed.

Colchester Zoo is currently home to male lion BaileyColchester Zoo is currently home to male lion Bailey (Image: Colchester Zoo) Colchester Zoo worked alongside specialist architects at Dearadh Zu to develop the design from looking at nature and the biodiversity of the African Scrub and Kopje habitats.

The development of the enclosure is in the pre application phase but visuals of the planned area show a naturalistic lion habitat complete with scrubland planning areas, rocky outcrops and water bodies to encourage the animal's natural behaviour. 

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The development also includes a themed African Boma VillageThe development also includes a themed African Boma Village (Image: Colchester Zoo)Jonathan Mcloughlan, of Dearadh Zu, said: "The lion house, nestled withing a rocky Kopje outcrop, will invite guests to explore over two levels. 

"Here visitors will come face to face with not only lions within the indoor habitat but also with an array of other species that call the Kopje landscape their home."

Colchester Zoo said it hopes the multi-million pound investment will pave the way for future and inspire generations to come to care for wildlife through conservation.