Adelaide Zoo

As part of a cooperative conservation agreement, Adelaide Zoo received some very special guests in 2009: two Giant Pandas on loan from China for 10 years. With patronage increasing, as visitors flock to see the first Giant Panda exhibit in Australia since 1998, the zoo's facilities were in need of some renovations.

Arup was appointed to provide complete project management services for the upgrade, including relocating the existing zoo entrance, a new visitor and conference centre, an upgrade of the entire perimeter fence, a Red Panda exhibit, and the new Giant Panda habitat.

Driven by the deadline for the arrival of the pandas, this project is being delivered as a true "fast-track" development, requiring significant management, consultation and coordination to ensure Zoos SA achieves its objectives.

The challenge of accommodating a combination of very specific animal husbandry requirements, environmentally sustainable design principles and the needs of the viewing public has resulted in a unique design, ensuring the zoo will become a landmark in the heart of Adelaide.