Dublin Zoo, Phoenix Park, Dublin 8
PROTECTED STRUCTURE: The development will consist of transforming an existing habitat and sloping woodland landscape into an ecologically rich and varied zone that features iconic fauna and flora of Ireland. The former Tapir House is renovated to feature immersive interpretive experiences, including interior viewing out toward the new Irish Hare Habitat. Double doors lead out onto the meandering pathway that takes visitors through landscapes indicative of important Irish plant communities and in and out of various animal enclosures. A new Irish Hare Enclosure welcomes visitors at the upper-most area of the zone, where visitors look across the habitat from a new viewing deck. Further down the slope, Irish grasslands transition to pine woodlands, and visitors walk beneath an overhead crossing for the native Red Squirrel. At the base of the slope, a new Aviary for birds of prey is situated at the lake edge, where a mix of overland and overwater habitat provides a varied habitat for the Raptor Species. The new 2926m2 Habitat works will include renovation of an existing building, flexible & rigid mesh animal enclosures, new visitor decks, pathways & retaining walls, and new plantings. Associated drainage and ancillary works are also included. The proposed development is within the curtilage of a Protected Structure (RPS No.6757, The Thatched Cottage (former entrance).