72% of visitors take chairlift!
On the first anniversary of the re-launch of our chairlift we’re delighted to tell you that 72 per cent of height-compatible visitors use the vintage craft.
We’ve also discovered that more people ride up than down!
DZG CEO Peter Suddock said: “We have had tremendous interest in the chairlift since it re-opened to the public after restoration last August Bank Holiday, and carried out a simple survey using clicker counters to find out just how many people take the two-minute ride between the zoo’s upper and lower levels. “Due to safety rules and height restrictions many of our younger visitors are unable to make the journey, but for those who are it’s brought back many happy memories and also spawned a whole generation of first timers who are now firm chairlift fans.” Mr Suddock said: “As for more people going up than down we really haven’t a clue as there’s also a land train available at the entrance, but we just think it’s the quirkiness that appeals to them as soon as they come on site, and it also cuts out that steep walk up Castle Hill.” He added: “As for more people going up than down we really haven’t a clue as there’s also a land train available at the entrance, but we just think it’s the quirkiness that appeals to them as soon as they come on site, and it also cuts out that steep walk up Castle Hill.”
Our chairlift was the first passenger-carrying aerial ropeway to be installed in England and transports visitors from the zoo’s lower zone to the 11th century Dudley Castle on the upper level, within a two-minute journey, offering panoramic views across Sandwell to Birmingham, and travelling directly over flamingoes and our newly-opened £20,000 exhibit Baboons on the Bank, home to a five-strong group of Gelada baboons.
Opened in May 1958
The chairlift was officially opened to DZG’s visitors on May 11, 1958 by comedian Richard Hearne, who played the madcap children’s TV character Mr Pastry. One of the first passengers was Dudley schoolboy John Price (pictured).
