Colchester Zoo has banned smoking and vaping within its attraction following a recent fire on site.
From now on, people will now only be able to light up at a designated area outside the entrance.
Visitors are generally supportive of the move, with even some smokers admitting it’s unfair to ruin the experience for others by smoking wherever.
On its Facebook page yesterday, Colchester Zoo said: ‘Following a recent fire which was quickly contained, we have taken the decision to impose stricter rules upon this policy.
‘Smoking and vaping will no longer be permitted at smoking zones within the Zoo grounds, instead there is now one designated area outside of the Zoo entrance.
‘This decision was taken following the advice of our insurers, as well as damage that has been caused by lit cigarettes over recent years.
‘Please be aware that if you do choose to leave the zoo to use the designated area outside of the grounds you will need to collect a re-entry wristband upon exiting through our main shop. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.’
The news has had a good reaction on social media, with one person writing: ‘Yay! I wouldn’t mind if people kept to the smoking areas but they never did!
‘Whenever I found a bench with my two children for lunch we’d always have a cloud of smoke come over!’
Another added: ‘This is great news! I’m pleased the incident which has caused this decision wasn’t worse.’
Many smokers were also in favour, with one commenting: ‘I think this is a fantastic idea, I’m a smoker myself and always use the designated areas when visiting, but it does annoy me seeing others walking round and lighting up wherever they feel like it and ruining it for others.’
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