By Jamie Waller, Local Democracy Reporter
A wildlife enthusiast dubbed ‘the British Tiger King’ has had his application for an animal sanctuary in Nottinghamshire refused.
Reece Oliver, who keeps lions, pumas and tapirs at his Strelley farm, had hoped to build a 10-hectare zoo with 27 guest cabins, a spa and a restaurant.
The plans claim it would have been a world-class facility which would do the “same for Trowell as Chester Zoo did for Chester”.
It would have eventually been home to lions, hippos and giraffes, councillors had previously been told.
The facility was planned for the Forge, a former industrial area in Trowell which has been returned to nature.
However, the council’s planning committee rejected the plans due to its location in greenbelt land, as well as flooding and wildlife concerns.
Mr Oliver told the committee on Wednesday (March 13): “Animals are my life – I have rescued hundreds, and it pains me I don’t have the finances to do more.
“The sanctuary will improve the lives of its animal residents and the local people, with 60 new jobs created and many more indirectly.
“This site would be terrible for any other development, but is perfect for us.
“The benefit environmentally, economically and socially is huge. It’s a massive opportunity for Broxtowe to support a development of world-class standards.”
He claimed to have searched over 200 sites before choosing this one.
The committee’s public gallery was full with both supporters and objectors of the plan.
Councillor Greg Marshall described the application as “one of most emotive issues at this meeting for many years”, and urged councillors to stick to planning considerations.
Councillor Lydia Ball (Con), who represents Trowell, said: “The land isn’t big enough for what they want to do – it’s not the right place for an animal sanctuary of that size.
“It’s a very built-up area. This piece of precious open land should remain as it is.”
Councillor Philip Owen said he didn’t see the “special circumstances” which would allow building in the greenbelt land.
“This is effectively a commercial enterprise – why does an animal sanctuary need a large restaurant and spa? Will the animals have a massage?” He asked.
Councillor Steve Carr (Ind) was one of two members to vote in favour of it, saying the plans were a “huge opportunity for the borough.”
“[Rejecting it] shows lack of ambition for this borough. We’re notoriously bad at attracting tourism, and this would attract loads of people,” he said.
“I suspect a neighbouring authority like Erewash or Amber Valley would welcome an investment like this.”
After a lengthy debate, the committee rejected the plans on five different grounds – building in the green belt, detriment to the area’s character, building in higher risk flood zones, building too far away from town centres when alternatives are available, and a loss of biodiversity.
The final vote was nine to two against.
