A local premium landscaping materials supplier has played a behind-the-scenes role in helping create new animal habitats and visitor spaces at Hertfordshire Zoo, donating materials free of charge to support the attraction’s ongoing conservation-led development.

ExCo

George Davies Turf & Stone worked with the Broxbourne-based zoo as it continued its transformation into a conservation-focused destination, supplying specialist turf and landscaping materials to help create natural environments for animals including the Lions of India, alpacas and goats.

The company donated 330m² of premium turf, selected for its durability and resilience, ensuring it could withstand daily use from animals while maintaining a natural, comfortable surface. Additional materials, including sleepers, topsoil and patio supplies, were also provided to support the creation of a new VIP area and discovery studio, both of which have enhanced visitor learning experiences.

Hertfordshire Zoo and George Davies Turf & Stone team members at the zoo.

placeholder image — Hertfordshire Zoo and George Davies Turf & Stone team members at the zoo.

While people may not immediately notice the ground beneath their feet (or paws), carefully chosen landscaping plays an important role in creating environments that support animal wellbeing as well as improving the overall experience for families visiting the zoo.

George Davies, owner and director of George Davies Turf & Stone, said: “We were incredibly proud to support Hertfordshire Zoo with this project. It’s not every day you get the chance to see your work contributing to something so meaningful, helping to create spaces that benefit both animals and visitors to the zoo. As a local business, being able to donate materials and play a small role in a conservation-focused project like this was something we were really passionate about.”

For members of the George Davies team, the project quickly became more than just another job. During a visit to the zoo, George Davies team members Darren, Damian and Izzy were given a behind-the-scenes tour by Aaron Whitnall, site development coordinator, known from CBBC’s One Zoo Three, offering a closer look at the valuable conservation work taking place.

Meeting zookeepers and learning about breeding programmes gave the team a deeper understanding of how thoughtful design contributes to animal care and they even had the chance to meet some of the animals up close, with Darren proving the bravest of the group. Returning to the alpaca enclosure and seeing their donated turf in daily use was a proud moment, made even more special by discovering a plaque within the new VIP area recognising the business’s contribution.

Getting hands-on with some of the zoo's residents.

Tyler Whitnall, managing director at Hertfordshire Zoo said: “Creating natural, durable environments for our animals is essential to both their wellbeing and our conservation mission. This support from the team at George Davies Turf & Stone has made a real difference, allowing us to develop habitats and visitor spaces that enhance both animal care and the educational experience for guests. We are extremely grateful for their generosity and willingness to help and are delighted with the results.”

Hertfordshire Zoo, formerly Paradise Wildlife Park, is home to more than 800 animals and has undergone significant redevelopment in recent years, with a strong focus on conservation, education and creating meaningful experiences for visitors.

For George Davies Turf & Stone, the collaboration reflects an ongoing commitment to supporting community and conservation initiatives, demonstrating how local businesses can contribute their skills and resources to projects that benefit people and wildlife.