Howletts Wild Animal Park has announced its herd of African elephants will remain at the Bekesbourne site near Canterbury on a permanent basis, after efforts to find a suitable overseas rewilding project were unsuccessful.
Fundraising meant for rewilding will support local care
The zoo and its charity partners previously ran a public fundraiser that raised £257,961 to support a return to the wild. Despite that sum, trustees have said no appropriate scheme has been identified that could take the family group together. As a result, the Trust will focus on improving conditions at Howletts to meet the elephants’ long-term needs.
Planning application filed for expanded facilities
The Trust has submitted a planning application to Canterbury City Council for an upgraded elephant complex. The proposals include a new purpose-built elephant house and extended outdoor space intended to improve welfare and help the herd move more freely between paddocks.
- Herd size: 12 African elephants
- Fund raised: £257,961
- Proposed indoor area: 3,300 m²
- Additional outdoor habitat: 10,000 m²
- Total elephant space if approved: 41,000 m² (around 10 acres)
What the development would provide
The planning documents describe a series of enhancements aimed at enriched husbandry, including larger pools, wallows, dusting areas, sheltered outdoor spaces and extensive indoor sand surfaces. The scheme is branded the "Elephant Village" and would create areas for visitors to engage with keepers, learn about individual animals, and support the herd through adoptions and donations.
| Item | Current | Proposed |
|---|---|---|
| Elephant numbers | 12 | 12 (no reduction) |
| Indoor elephant space | Not specified | 3,300 m² |
| Additional outdoor habitat | Not specified | 10,000 m² |
| Total elephant area | Not specified | 41,000 m² (≈10 acres) |
Context and local impact
Howletts is already home to a broad collection of animals, and is reported to house more than 390 individuals across 52 species. The park’s trustees say that ticket income contributes to day-to-day care and wider conservation work, and the new plans aim to align facilities with emerging best-practice guidance for keeping elephants in the UK.
The decision to retain the herd will be of interest both to supporters of rewilding initiatives and to residents near the park, as the proposals include larger, purpose-built structures and enhanced visitor facilities. Any planning application will be considered by Canterbury City Council through the usual local authority process, and members of the public will be able to view the documentation and submit comments in line with council procedures.
No changes to the herd’s composition have been announced; the Trust says its priority is the animals’ welfare and ensuring appropriate long-term accommodation.
