Cheshire West and Chester Council have approved plans for a new overnight safari accommodation at Chester Zoo.

The development will include 51 safari-style lodges, a reception building with a bar and restaurants, as well as a new lake.

In collaboration with Buttress Architects, Gillespies has developed the masterplan, design concept, and planning submission for the new development.

The safari-themed lodges and restaurant building are nestled with a naturalistic landscape that showcases the African savannah, whilst celebrating the area’s local biodiversity.

Designs include native species, open mosaic habitat-style planting, a large biodiverse water body, complete with earth banks for Sand Martins migrating from Africa to nest.

The landscape is set to complement the forthcoming Grasslands exhibit, designed by Gillespies, Buttress and the Chester Zoo team, which is currently under construction.

Visitors will be able to enjoy views over the Grassland Giraffe habitat, with opportunities to feed the animals from nearby feeding stations.

The new lake will also house a central island to serve as a venue for events, gatherings, functions and visitor experiences.