By Jamie Waller, Local Democracy Reporter
An exotic animal enthusiast whose plans for an animal sanctuary were turned down says he has been approached by other interested councils.
Reece Oliver, who rescues and keeps lions privately at his Strelley farm, had hoped to build a 10-hectare wildlife park with 27 cabins near Trowell.
However, the application was rejected by Broxtowe Borough Council’s planning committee last week due to concerns about its greenbelt location, flooding and natural impact.
The application said the development it would have been a world-class facility which would do the “same for Trowell as Chester Zoo did for Chester”.
Mr Oliver said the council had “no vision”, and he may take the attraction to another authority area.
“I am disappointed and frankly surprised by council,” he said, speaking from his farm where he keeps four lions, 27 monkeys, a puma and a tapir.
“Two or three councils – both local and across the UK – have contacted us. They can see the economic benefit.
“We will resubmit the plan, possibly a revised scheme. We have the land for a few years so we can keep going.”
On whether he would take the plans to another area, he said: “We will see what happens. I want to help more animals and can’t do it here in Strelley any more.”
He told the planning committee on March 13: “The benefit environmentally, economically and socially is huge.”
Broxtowe Borough Council says the plans were considered in line with planning policies and law.
The facility was planned for a former industrial area on Ilkeston Road’ known as the Forge, which has been returned to nature.
Councillors expressed concern over whether the location was suitable for the attraction.
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.
“This piece of precious open land should remain as it is.”
Councillor Stephen Carr (Ind) was one of two members to vote in favour, saying: “I suspect a neighbouring authority like Erewash or Amber Valley would welcome an investment like this.”
The application was rejected on five 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.
