Staff at Dudley Zoo say they’re 'disappointed' that anniversary plans to reopen the Tropical Bird House have been halted by heritage officials.

Zoo Director Derek Grove said: “We felt this was a wonderful opportunity to bring an original Tecton building back into use during our 80th year as an all-weather indoor exhibit for small South American species.

“But we’ve been informed by heritage officials they’d prefer to develop a plan to explore potential opportunities for all the remaining unrestored grade II listed Tecton structures on site, rather than devising options for just the Tropical Bird House.”

Undeterred by this set back the attraction will plough ahead with their £295,000 redevelopment programme, which is set to modernise a number of enclosures across the zoo site, including the farmyard, capuchin, lynx and snow leopards. Bosses say they will also still be celebrating on May 6th – the official anniversary date – by hosting fundraising event; 'Walk On The Wild Side'!

Supporters can sign up for the popular event and complete a sponsored walk around the zoo's 40-acre site, with all funds raised going towards their latest conservation project to extend the Bornean orangutan enclosure. Mr Grove added:

“We’re looking forward to our anniversary celebrations as there’ll be a really fun, party atmosphere on site as we our mark our past 80 years, while also raising money for future projects.”