West Midland Safari Park: Building work to begin on four lion lodges

Last week, Wyre Forest District Council gave the green light to the next instalment of the safari park’s luxury lodges - this time integrated into a brand-new habit for the park’s bachelor group of lions.

The safari park says the four lodges will be ‘authentically designed’ with open-plan living spaces, an outdoor private garden, and floor-to-ceiling windows in the bedroom and living areas.

Aerial view of what the lion lodges could look like. (Image: West Midland Safari Park.)

As week as new guest accommodation, the lion’s habitat has been futureproofed for if the dynamics of the pride were to change, such as the introduction of lionesses.

Managing director, Chris Kelly said: "We're delighted that planning has been granted for the next stage of our development.

"This will see new habitats, housing and facilities being built for our bachelor pride of lions, enabling our brilliant team of wildlife keepers to continue the high standard of care they provide for our animals.

This is what a bedroom in the new safari lodges could look like. (Image: West Midland Safari Park)

“The lions moving into the new habitat, were born here at the park back in 2019 and we are excited that this is the first time our guests will be able to see them on foot.

"Alongside their new facilities, we will be installing four beautiful new lodges, which will offer an unforgettable and immersive experience, with these incredible big cats.”

The new lodges will be located near the park’s African Village, a pedestrianised area that houses meerkats, lemurs and goats.

This means that day guests will be able to see the lions on foot, for the first time from a viewpoint in the African Village.

The safari lodges, which will sleep up to six people, are due to open early next summer with the booking system opening in January.