Adelaide-based Phillips/Pilkington Architects has drawn up plans for Zoos South Australia's (ZSA) masterplan, which is set to transform both its Adelaide and Monarto Zoos over the course of the next two decades.

The plans detail several immersive environments, including a nature playground at Adelaide and for Monarto the addition of a Predator Experience, new visitor centre and overnight safari-style accommodation. The masterplan has been designed to enhance the zoos’ capacity to safeguard its existing animal species and create a valuable visitor experience.

Adelaide Zoo’s Nature’s Playground and Aussie Icons precinct will be the first project to be developed. The new area will include climbing structures, aerial walkways with river views, water play features and an interactive children’s zoo with native animals.

Monarto’s first development – Predator Experience – will take visitors into the centre of a lion’s den, giving them a close up of the action. The overnight safari-style accommodation, is designed to complement the experience and will likely be similar to that seen at Canberra Zoo, using bush cabins or luxury ‘glamping’ tents. After their overnight stay, guests will be taken on an early morning safari tour.

Future plans for Adelaide Zoo include a total of seven new precincts; Nature’s Playground, Jewels of Asia, Bamboo Forest, Into Africa, The Tropical North, Jungle Journey and Conservation Oz. Monarto is planning four new precincts; African Savannah, Back from the Brink, Australian Outback and Wild Africa.

The masterplan will also introduce several new species to the zoos in the new areas, with the Western Lowland Gorilla, Sri Lankan Leopard and Komodo Dragon coming to Adelaide, while the Nyala and Maned Wolf go to Monarto.

While the total cost has not been outlined by ZSA, funding will be realised through the zoo’s annual operating budget in addition to external funding garnered from the corporate sector, government and public fundraising.

“To ensure we are able to realise our vision from a sustainable financial platform we have developed a robust forward plan that will ensure all major commercial developments are supported by a strong business case for investment and a clear financial model is in place before each project is commenced,” said Elaine Bensted ZSA chief executive.

“Importantly, to minimise the impact of disruption caused by development on site and to effectively manage our finances, the roll out of the vision plan will be carefully staged over 20 years.”

ZSA is aiming to begin development on Nature’s Playground and Aussie Icons precincts in the 2015-2016 financial year, once initial funding has been secured.

To see the full ZSA masterplan, click here.

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