Famous and well respected supporters of Wildwalk
Save Wildwalk has gathered some quotes, and also asked various well known and well respected people and organisations for their comments on the situation. Here’s what some have to say about Wildwalk and its proposed closure…
Sir David Attenborough, on the opening of the attraction:
“[Wildwalk] harnesses all that we’ve learned about zoos, all that we’ve learned about wildlife film-making in television, plus a lot of very inspired ideas.”
Wildscreen Chief Executive, Harriet Nimmo, on the day the closure was announced:
“It is sad and ironic that the decision [to close Wildwalk] comes in the week the world finally acknowledged global action is needed to safeguard our natural environment.”
Tim Smit CEO and co-founder Eden Project Cornwall UK:
“We were dismayed when we heard of Wildwalk’s problems particularly as we shared much of the same vison, walked the same path and were “born” at much the same time; we always enjoyed carrying out similar work at different ends of the region. We know precisely how hard it is to strive to look after visitors in fresh and dynamic ways and admire those like Wildwalk’s team who have tried so hard to do just that; and we understand more than most the tough economics of making all that happen. Wildwalk was a unique oasis in the middle of an increasingly vibrant Bristol city centre and we hope that somehow life can be breathed back into it so it has as wild a future as it deserves.”
Nigel Hutchings, Regional Affairs Director of Business West:
“Business West is disappointed to learn of the possible closure of this remarkable facility. Along with the Imax and Explore, it provides an attraction of World class quality, so important for this European City wishing to attract visitors and new investment into the West of England.”
John Payne, Chairman of Bristol Civic Society
“Whilst the Civic Society hasn’t formally considered the proposed closure of Wildwalk, I am sure that I would be speaking on behalf of our members if I said that it was most regrettable that this facility is to be closed. It is a wonderful attraction for visitors and provides a most valuable educational facility on environmental issues for people living in Bristol and surrounding areas. It would be tragic to lose all this at such a critical time in the campagn for action to address climate change. I really hope that [Wildwalk] can attract alternative funding.”
Harry Marshall, of Icon Films, a Bristol based company which produces natural history programmes:
“It is tragic that with Bristol’s international reputation as a centre for ecology and natural history, that a lighthouse exhibit like this faces closure so soon after opening.”
Gina Fucci, of Films@59, a Bristol based company which post produces many natural history programmes:
“Wildwalk was the brainchild of Christopher Parsons and his team of dedicated supporters. Having worked in the BBC Bristol Natural History Unit, he had a desire to share the wonders of the natural world with the Bristol community and it’s visitors. Unfortunately this vision proved to be a costly one that couldn’t easily be financially sustained. If only there was some team out there with the strength and foresight to carry on this legacy so that it can be an affordable space for all to discover the wonders of the natural world.”
A spokesperson for the University of Bristol:
“At-Bristol is a wonderful asset to the city-region and a cornerstone of the Harbourside regeneration. The University of Bristol wishes every success to all those who are seeking to make sure its future is secure and bright.”
If you or your organisation would like to add your comments to our site, please email me at carolyn@savewildwalk.org.uk