Knowsley Safari demands answers from government about why it can’t reopen

Knowsley Safari park bosses are demanding to know why the public can visit McDonald’s drive-thrus but not their park. 

The new government guidelines put in place mean Knowsley Safari park, like many others, cannot reopen.

The very popular attraction cannot understand why it is now okay for people to go the shops and public spaces, where there is no enforced social distancing, but cannot visit the park, staying in their own vehicle to watch the animals. 

The attraction has said it is ‘well-prepared, ready and waiting to reopen’.

Rachel Scott, marketing director at Knowsley Safari, said: “We’d really hoped to be opening our Safari Drive this week because this whole part of the Safari experience means people don’t have to get out of their vehicles.

“This seems such a safe and sensible way for people to still enjoy seeing the animals, while having a day out, but sadly we have to remain closed until advised otherwise by the Government. This is really worrying and frustrating.

“We can’t understand why it’s now ok for people to go into shops or visit public spaces where there’s no enforced social distancing, but not stay in their vehicle on the Safari Drive. It just doesn’t make any sense.”

The park has taken to social media to put a number of questions to the government and express their frustrations in pretty funny puns, all with the hashtag #OpenKnowsleySafari.

The safety measures put in place include:

• Online bookings, giving specific time slots to visitors
• Protective screens at the entry kiosk
• Signage at the park and roads
• Marked picnic area to allow visitors to eat their own food if socially distanced

Rachel Scott says: “We’re well-prepared, ready and waiting to reopen the Safari Drive and can hopefully do this much sooner rather than later. It’s critical we’re able to start selling tickets again soon to help raise money which will cover running and animal care costs, especially during the quieter winter months.”