Wild Planet Trust Announces Agreement with Libéma to Secure the Future of Paignton Zoo and Newquay Zoo

Wild Planet Trust is delighted to confirm that it has entered into an agreement with Libéma, marking a significant step towards securing the long-term future of Paignton Zoo and Newquay Zoo. This agreement will enable Wild Planet Trust to focus fully on its core mission of wildlife conservation, while entrusting the operation of the zoos to an experienced and well-respected organisation.

Since announcing in October that Wild Planet Trust was seeking investment partners, a number of potential investors have come forward. Following a comprehensive review of all proposals and thorough research into each party, Wild Planet Trust has selected Libéma as the ideal investor to take the zoos forward and will take ownership of both Paignton Zoo and Newquay Zoo on 2nd January 2026.

Libéma bring over 40 years of experience in the zoo and wildlife sector and currently operates four zoos in the Netherlands, which welcomed more than 2 million visitors last year. Their experience, commitment and enthusiasm give Wild Planet Trust the confidence that Paignton Zoo and Newquay Zoo will continue to deliver the highest standards of animal welfare alongside exceptional visitor experiences.

Although Libéma is not a charity, they share Wild Planet Trust’s strong conservation ethos. Libéma actively supports over 120 breeding programmes and around 30 conservation projects worldwide, including the Northern Corridors Project, which created safe wildlife corridors between nature reserves to allow elephants to move safely and avoid conflict with local communities. Further information on this initiative can be found at: https://www.beeksebergen.nl/en/northern-corridors-project

Libéma also delivers high-quality educational and research programmes, reflecting Wild Planet Trust’s own dedication to learning, science, and conservation.

Sarah Barr, Chair of Wild Planet Trust, added: “When we began seeking investment, our top priority was finding a new owner who would continue to operate the zoos and protect their legacy. We were determined to find someone who shared our deep passion for conservation and animal welfare. We are confident that, under Libéma ’s stewardship, the zoos will go from strength to strength whilst The Trust concentrates on its vital conservation work.”

While stepping back from directly operating the zoos is a major change, Wild Planet Trust is confident that this partnership represents the best outcome for the zoos, their staff, and their conservation objectives. Wild Planet Trust and Libéma will work closely over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition to maintain the excellent standards that visitors have come to expect.