Rhino Fencing | Chester Zoo

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  3. Rhino Fencing | Chester Zoo

Go beyond the fence with IPJ in our new video – featuring interviews with IPJ Installers and the team at Chester Zoo – as we answer the question – How are Zoo Enclosures built?

The Challenge

This project required us to install new retaining walls and steel framed fencing surrounding the indoor Rhino building and paddocks that sit as a prominent attraction within Chester Zoos new ‘Heart of Africa’ expansion. The installation completed without disrupting the day to day operations at the Zoo, the guest experience or the welfare of the animals or installers.

As well working in proximity to Rhinos that weigh over a tonne, the fencing had to be strong enough to contain them but also allow for keepers to access and engage with the animals.

Hear more from the team at CZ:

‘Delivering construction projects within a live Zoo environment is a unique challenge – the daily operations of the Zoo must continue uninterrupted while the safety and welfare of animals, visitors, staff and contractors sit at the forefront of every project.’

‘Home to over thirty-seven thousand animals and welcoming over 2 million guests a year – here at Chester Zoo, Contractors must be able to respond quickly to changing circumstances, adjust their programmes and work constructively with all stakeholders.’ – Adam Stokoe, Construction Manager, Chester Zoo

Adam Stokoe

The Solution

‘To navigate these challenges I.P. Jones works closely various stakeholders within the Zoo – from the operational team behind the scenes to the construction and animal teams on the ground. Together, they develop detailed plans encompassing access routes, noise management, logistics and the specific needs of nearby animals.

Regular coordination meetings, clear lines of communication and a proactive approach to problem solving enable potential issues to be identified and mitigated early – saving time, money and operational headaches allowing construction projects to be undertaken safely with minimal disruption to animals, staff and visitors.’ – Adam Stokoe

How are Zoo habitats designed?

When designing a Zoo habitat every element must be carefully considered to meet the needs of animals, keepers, wider zoo staff and visitors.

Every habitat is designed with the unique characteristics of its residents in mind – in this case the Black Rhino. These powerful animals can weigh in at over a tonne, making the strength and robustness of features an essential factor. When designing a habitat, we work closely with the animal team here at the Zoo – drawing on their expert knowledge and years of experience working with this species of Rhino to understand how their habitat can be best suited to their unique needs. – Chloe Kain, Enclosure Development Manager

A sustainable project:

Timber used in this project was supplied by Chester Zoo – From Grosvenor estate.

A common staple of projects between Chester Zoo and I.P. Jones is recycling materials from around the Zoo – using off-cuts from construction, old fence posts and materials to help build enriching habitats for the over 2000 species of animal that call Chester Zoo home.

Old timber posts from this project have been repurposed by I.P. Jones into another project >

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