Mitchell Park Zoo refurbishment update | City says upgrade plans are running smoothly
Refurbishment underway at Mitchell Park Zoo to restore the historic site.
Image: Supplied
The eThekwini Municipality has confirmed that refurbishment work at the historic Mitchell Park Zoo is progressing steadily, with the aim of transforming the facility into a safer, more engaging, and sustainable space for the community.
The park, which temporarily closed its gates in April, has seen a range of improvement activities including the renewal of flower beds, the construction of new paving, and the removal of unsafe playground equipment.
The upgrades are part of a broader municipal effort to revive public spaces damaged by severe weather and flooding.
“The upgrades to improve the Mitchell Park Zoo are well underway to create a safe, engaging and sustainable space for the community,” said the Municipality.
Staff on site at Mitchell Park
Image: eThekwini Municipality
The facility, which is over a century old, has been severely affected by recurring adverse weather conditions in recent years, particularly the most recent floods that caused significant damage.
Consequently, the Municipality has extended the park's closure to allow sufficient time for the necessary refurbishments to be completed.
While no official reopening date has been confirmed, the City has assured residents that it will be announced once the work is finalized.
Despite the closure, the welfare of the zoo’s 701 animals, representing 91 species, remains a priority.
“These animals are cared for seven days a week by a dedicated team of animal keepers, who feed them and clean their enclosures,” the Municipality said.
The upgrades are part of a broader municipal effort to revive public spaces damaged by severe weather and flooding.
Image: eThekwini Municipality
In the meantime, residents are encouraged to explore other green spaces around Durban.
“The public can still enjoy themselves at nearby parks, such as the newly revamped People’s Park at Moses Mabhida Stadium, Jameson Park, Botanical Gardens and Gugu Dlamini Park,” the Municipality stated.
The restoration of Mitchell Park Zoo forms part of eThekwini’s ongoing commitment to improving recreational infrastructure and preserving key heritage sites for future generations.
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