CLM Services Ltd has completed work on a new rhino enclosure at Knowsley Safari.

CLM were asked by the park to provide design, fabrication and installation work on six new paddock fence lines, four keeper areas, a veterinary area and a new VIP area.

CLM partnered with Merseyside Galvanising Ltd, to galvanise the steel to ensure the new structures are protected against corrosion and rust.

The project included the use of 50 tonnes of precast concrete panels and 15 tonnes of galvanised steel. Six sliding gates, each weighing 500kg were also installed. The new structures allow staff to safely access the rhinos to carry out essential zoo keeping tasks.

Eight white rhinos are now housed in the new enclosure, including a rare southern white rhino which was born shortly after work was completed.

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Commenting on the project Matt Hayes of CLM Services, said: "As a family-run business and member of BIAZA, we've worked on many zoological projects over the last 15 years, to be asked by the team at Knowsley Safari to develop a permanent new environment for its endangered white rhinos has been a real privilege, and we're pleased to have been able to deliver a fit-for-purpose solution for each of their requirements.

"One of the most innovative parts of the overall design was the vet area, which weighed five tonnes and included two manual and fully adjustable sliding gates to safely contain rhinos, allowing staff to adapt the size of the area based on the individual rhino’s size and conduct hoof inspections and weigh-ins.

"It's always beneficial to use galvanising for an environment like this where steel is open to the elements, and often harsh weather conditions. It can also be washed down with ease and without worry of damaging the structure, helping keepers to maintain a clean habitat and ensure the continued welfare of animals. The team at Merseyside Galvanising once again delivered on the brief and provided us – and the safari team – with the reassurance that the steel structures will last for decades to come."

Reflecting on their involvement, Richard Smetham, Sales Manager at Merseyside Galvanising (part of Wedge Group Galvanising Ltd), said: "We always look forward to working with CLM Services as we know the structures we're galvanising play such an important role – whether it be for animals, or for key construction projects and ariel amusement rides."