Pollution Risk Reduction Scheme at Newquay Zoo

Case Study: Pollution Risk Reduction Scheme at Newquay Zoo

Scheme Value: £450,000

Project Overview

Our client appointed Glanville Environmental to deliver a critical pollution risk reduction scheme at Newquay Zoo. The project centred on replacing a degraded 450mm uPVC sewer pipe that had run above ground behind a wildlife pond since the zoo’s construction over 50 years ago.

Exposure to sunlight and external pressures from tree roots had weakened the pipe significantly, posing an increasing pollution risk to the adjacent River Gannel and the animals living in the surrounding area, including exotic birds, wildfowl, and lemurs.

 

Objectives

• Remove the environmental and animal welfare risk caused by the failing pipeline
• Deliver a gravity pipeline solution that enhances hydraulic capacity and long-term maintainability
• Minimise impact on zoo operations, wildlife, and visitor experience
• Work sensitively within an ecologically protected area

Our Solution

Design & Concept

After an extensive review, replacing the pipe in its original location was ruled out due to the environmental disruption and the scale of over-pumping required. Instead, we engineered a bespoke diversion route through the adjacent ‘Savannah Field’ – home to zebras and wildebeest – avoiding the sensitive wildlife pond area entirely.

The new design included:

• Custom pipeline supports to address poor ground conditions
• A new pipe bridge to cross the river
• Increased hydraulic capacity
• Improved access for future maintenance

Stakeholder Collaboration

We worked closely with the zoo’s management and operations team to coordinate safe access, timings, and methodology, including:

• Zoo inductions for all site personnel
• Tree surveys and removal planning
• Extensive ecology and arborist reports
• Ground investigations and a bespoke Environment Agency permit

Installation & Delivery

To minimise disruption, a two-week window in January (when the zoo was closed to the public) was used to install a large temporary over-pumping system, allowing for a safe and efficient switch-over. The rest of the works were delivered while the zoo remained fully operational.

Additional key elements included:

• Custom zoo-spec fencing and gated access routes
• Green-painted pipeline to reduce visual impact (colour selected by the zoo)
• Sandbar willow planting and fencing to screen the new pipeline
• A new access road through Savannah Field retained post-completion for zookeeper use
• Use of as-dug material to create natural terrain for animals
• Pond Bank reinstatement and replacement of ageing wildfowl shelters
• Route planning that aligned with previously identified tree removals, reducing ecological impact and costs

Outcome & Benefits

Sustainability

The old pipeline route was repurposed into a new keeper access path behind the pond, enhancing daily animal care and offering a new visitor experience for feeding sessions.

Social & Environmental Impact

Greatly reduced pollution risk to Trenance Lake and River Gannel, safeguarding both wildlife and public spaces.

Cost Efficiency

Value-engineered design reduced disruption and long-term maintenance costs.

Futureproofing

The new pipeline offers enhanced accessibility and greater capacity to support the zoo and local infrastructure for years to come.

Health & Safety

The rerouted and fully supported system provides a safer, more resilient solution for all stakeholders.

Let’s Talk Environmental Solutions

Looking for expert support on pollution mitigation or infrastructure upgrades in sensitive locations?

Email us at: email@glanvilleltd.co.uk

Visit: www.glanvilleenvironmental.com