Bristol Zoo memorabilia was sold today in an attempt to raise money for Bristol Zoo project and conservation.
The Clifton based zoo closed in 2022 after being active for 186 years. They moved to a new site formerly known as the Wild Place Project and still functions as a zoo.
Items in this auction are part of the historic fabric of Bristol Zoo Gardens and should never be crudely auctioned off to the highest bidder.
— SBZ Gardens (@SBZGardens) November 19, 2024
It is tantamount to someone smashing up their own property before they move out, so no one else can move in or enjoy it after they leave.
The auction has faced controversy with Activist group ‘Save Bristol Zoo Gardens’ attempting to put an end to the auction through an injunction.
Whilst their attempts failed, they continually campaigned for a stop to the event with the hope that the valuable items would one day be returned to the original site.
So far, the auction has raised £50,000 with more items still to go to auction. An Edwardian sign for the zoo sold for £16,000 showing the value of these coveted items.
It’s bittersweet to see Bristol Zoo memorabilia go under the hammer… so much history tied to a place that’s been part of countless childhood memories. Hopefully, these auctions preserve the legacy rather than dilute it.
— Life Echoes Psychology Facts (@lifeechoes4real) November 21, 2024
The auction has garnered mixed reactions, with some wanting to preserve the history of the old Zoo and others wanting to promote conservation.
The auction will continue through today, with around 200 items still to sell.
Failing successful legal action, we strongly urge the public to bid on the items in the Bristol Zoo auctions, with a view to one day donating them back to Bristol Zoo Gardens, once a better future has been secured for the site.
— SBZ Gardens (@SBZGardens) November 22, 2024
