Chester Zoo has announced a host of new jobs are being made available within its new wedding and events venue which opens this spring.
The Square is a luxury 200-capacity destination, due to open in May.
It is an extension of the Grade II listed stable block which has stood at the heart of the 128-acre conservation zoo since it opened in 1931.
The original structures were once home to some of the zoo’s first animals – such as lions, bears and chimpanzees.
Following a three-year restoration project, the historical building will soon be hosting special occasions for the first time – with couples able to tie the knot surrounded by 27,000 animals.
The venue will also host corporate events and provide unique meeting spaces, while the zoo hopes it will go on to stage important global summits and political conferences centred on wildlife conservation, as part of its efforts to protect endangered species.
The unique space has its own large private courtyard, and features an impressive gated entrance as well as a host of preserved original features that tell the story of the original building,
There are exposed brick walls, vaulted rafters and large windows that overlook the zoo’s botanical gardens.
Ahead of its grand unveiling, 22 new job are being advertised – including chefs, bar staff, front of house team members and events staff.
Jen McDermott, head of people and culture at the zoo, said: “The Square is a special, one-of-a-kind space that’s rich in history and character.
“It’s stood at the heart of the zoo for approaching a century, and, now it’s been renovated and brought to life, we’re so excited to be able to start welcoming guests to weddings and other large scale events to our incredible new venue in just a few months’ time.
“If you’re interested in a career at the zoo then we now have a host of roles available working at The Square, from chefs to front of house staff.
“And, as with all roles at our zoo, it’s a wonderful feeling knowing that you’ll be contributing to a better future for wildlife.
“As a not-for-profit, all income generated by The Square – and indeed the zoo – goes towards our charitable mission to prevent extinction.
“There really is nothing else quite like The Square anywhere in the UK.
“What other places of work are there where you can explore 128 acres of beautiful gardens surrounded by 27,000 amazing animals every day?”
Full details of the various positions on offer and details on how to apply can be found on the zoo’s website.
