A Holmes Chapel-based zoo is getting ready to open its doors for Christmas after finally getting the greenlight from planners to open. 

Zoo2U had an earlier planning approval quashed after a decision by Cheshire East's southern planning committee to approve the proposal was quashed following a legal challenge from animal rights campaigners. 

Members of the council's Strategic Planning Board voted last week to approve the planning application on land at Bidlea Dairy in Twemlow Lane, Holmes Chapel as we told here .

Now zoo owners Melissa Mews and husband Ben are getting the zoo, whose website is here ready to open.

The couple have been working for nearly two years to get planning approval for the zoo which they say is cited in a "perfect" setting.  

The zoo will be open on 15th, 21st and 22nd December and will feature a host of animals including a giant tortoise, guinea pig paddock, koobabura, owls and three new parrots. 

"It's the best Christmas present we could have," said Melissa. "Not only are the animals safe and secure in their home here but also our hardworking staff have secure jobs. 

"They have stayed with us while all this was going on and we're delighted to be able to make their jobs secure. 

"It's amazing news. Our Christmas openings will be based on "affordable" prices and all the money we raise from that will go back into building projects. 

Mellissa and Ben Mews from Zoo2U have had the best Christmas present ever. (Photo: LDR/Belinda Ryan)

"This means we can now start making plans for the future and forge ahead which is wonderful." 

The zoo, which was once based at Hall Farm in Alsager, employs six staff and is based on land at Bidlea Dairy in Holmes Chapel. 

Melissa's husband, Ben, gave a three minute presentation to last week's Strategic Planning Board, summarising the zoo and its plans. 

"It's the perfect spot here," said Melissa. "We must have looked at around 90 locations in the area but this was the best location. 

"We can't wait to welcome visitors and look forward to pushing ahead with our plans and creating revenue which will 

"You have to take into account the animals' needs. For example owls need peace and quiet – they are programmed to hear the heartbeat of their prey. 

"Each animal has different needs and we need somewhere which had the best environment for the animals." 

Melissa and Ben are busy finalising the plans for Zoo2U but in the meantime they are quietly celebrating their biggest achievement this year. 

"It still feels a bit surreal," said Melissa. "It's the best Christmas present we could have had.  

"We're looking forward to welcoming visitors to the zoo on the three days in the run-up to Christmas and creating revenue which will support the animals here."  

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