Created: 25th September, 2026
Barker has been appointed to support the ambitious Hertfordshire Zoo Masterplan, a long-term programme that will help shape the future of the zoo over the next 15 to 20 years. The vision is to create a world-class visitor destination that places conservation, education and sustainability at its heart.
The appointment marks an exciting expansion into a new sector for Barker, while drawing on the same strategic thinking, infrastructure expertise and long-term estate planning experience that we bring to complex projects across education, public sector and commercial environments.
Hertfordshire Zoo’s ambitions extend far beyond individual development projects. As the site evolves, it requires a coordinated infrastructure and engineering framework capable of supporting future growth while maintaining day-to-day operations. Key considerations for all project partners include animal welfare, visitor experience, sustainability, operational resilience and long-term commercial viability.
To meet these requirements, Barker will support a strategic approach to planning and delivery, helping to create the foundations for phased expansion over the coming decades. This includes considering how infrastructure, utilities and site-wide systems can be developed in a way that supports both future growth and business continuity.
A key factor in securing the appointment was Barker’s focus on understanding the wider objectives behind the masterplan. Through research, site visits and engagement with stakeholders, we developed a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with creating a modern zoological destination. These included balancing conservation goals and animal welfare with immersive visitor experiences, sustainable development and long-term operational performance.
The project also highlights Barker’s ability to apply expertise gained in other sectors to new and complex environments. Drawing on experience in large-scale masterplanning, infrastructure coordination, estate strategy and operationally sensitive sites, the team demonstrated how lessons learned from major development programmes can support the zoo’s goals.
“The Hertfordshire Zoo Masterplan is a chance to establish the engineering foundations for a destination that will evolve, inspire and grow for generations to come. Barker Associates’ engineering team will bring far more than technical design expertise; we will provide strategic infrastructure thinking, long-term planning and collaborative leadership to ensure every phase of development supports the wider vision.
“We are excited to join the project team on what promises to be a remarkable journey, helping to transform ambitious aspirations into practical, deliverable, and sustainable engineering solutions. As Hertfordshire Zoo continues its evolution into a world-class destination, Barker Associates looks forward to helping every opportunity roar into life, and allowing ideas to run wild.”
