The work of a Belfast Zoo curator is never done which is why, on her journey home from work, Julie Mansell noticed on-going road works on the A8 Belfast to Larne Road.
The Belfast Zoo team approached the A8 Larne Lagan Ferrovial Costain (LFC) Joint Venture construction team with their proposal and were astounded by the response and support received. The LFC team were involved from the initial planning stages of the bear enclosure renovations, right through to the actual renovations and donated not only materials but also staff, time and equipment. Their support and input now means that the zoo’s Malayan sun bears, Indera and Bora, can enjoy new outdoor climbing structures, wobble feeders, tree trunks, bark pits, tunnels, a running waterfall and hammocks to relax in.
Stevie Adamson, the LFC Joint Venture Structures Forman, is delighted with the project.
“It’s not every day you get approached and asked to renovate a sun bear enclosure but we were delighted to get involved in such an interesting community project.”Stevie Adamson, the LFC Joint Venture Structures Forman
“We are truly astounded with the thought, time, work and materials that Lagan Ferrovial Costain and their supply chain have donated to the project and the renovations simply wouldn’t have been possible without them. It’s definitely not just the ‘bear necessities’ for this project as the companies involved have exceeded all of our expectations with their generosity and attention to detail! The newly renovated enclosure, which is located at the very top of the Cave Hill site, will definitely be a ‘room with a view’ for Indera and Bora as their new climbing frames and hammocks will provide an incredible view across Belfast Lough!”Mark Challis, Zoo Manager