By Don Mort and Michael Broomhead, local democracy reporting service
A tropical-themed visitor attraction is set to open in Pudsey Park this summer.
The glasshouse at Pudsey Park has been derelict for six years but will soon be transformed after planning permission was granted.
Junglebox Ltd has started work to convert the site into a rainforest and cafe, which will be called The Really Wild Zoo.
A disused visitor centre will also be turned into a jungle-themed zoo where exotic animals will live.
Matthew Shaw, a director of Junglebox, said: “What Junglebox are all about is providing experiences that connect people with the natural world, through immersion first and foremost.”
Leeds City Council allowed the scheme to go ahead after dozens of letters of support were received.
A central clearing in the rainforest site is set to include a dedicated teaching space.
Mr Shaw said: “What we are looking to do here is to bring the excitement of a tropical rainforest to Pudsey, to the UK, so people can go in in and get lost in this place.”
Animals in the zoo centre would be able to behave as they would in their natural habitats, Mr Shaw said.
He said: “We’ve been very much galvanised by the local support we’ve had here and we have gained an understanding of what this place has meant to the people of Pudsey over many generations.
“There’s a real heritage here and we are feeling the responsibility of taking on that legacy.”
Volunteers appeal
An appeal for help has been made by the directors of Junglebox.
Posting on social media, they said: “We need to move some soil from the antechamber of the Glasshouse and into the main body of the Glasshouse on 21 and 22 April. If you are able to volunteer, this contribution will make a huge difference in getting things going. It will also be a chance for us to connect with local people interested in getting more deeply involved with the project down the line.
“If you would like to help, please email info@junglebox.uk with your name, what you are able to do and which of the two days you are able to do it.
“It’s very important that everyone is safe, so those that attend will need to come prepared with appropriate footwear (steel toe caps if you’ve got them!), something to keep yourself hydrated with and gloves. Wheelbarrows and shovels will also be useful.
“Thank you in advance of your support, and we look forward to meeting you soon!”
Additional reporting: John Baron