THE company run by Dalton zoo founder David Gill has gone into administration.

South Lakes Safari Zoo (SLSZ) , the firm set up and run by Mr Gill, went into administration today (October 29).

Mr Gill's former home overlooking the zoo, which is understood to be owned by him and not SLSZ, has also been put on the market for £650,000. 

The limited company owns the land on which the zoo is based. This land is then leased to the zoo's operator; Cumbria Zoo Company (CZC) Ltd.

The day-to-day operation of the zoo is not affected by the administration of SLSZ which only impacts on the owner of the land.

SLSZ was forced into administration after a winding-up order was made following "significant financial issues". Any individual or company which is owed money by a limited company can request a winding-up order if, for example, the debts are unpaid.

While the company which runs the zoo, CZC, is not affected it will no doubt play a part in its future as administrators look to free up any assets held by SLSZ in a bid to pay any unpaid creditors.

The most significant asset is likely to be the land. The administrators, FRP Advisory, will be looking to sell the land to free up capital to pay any outstanding mortgages or liabilities.

Cumbria Zoo Company Limited was set up in October 2016 as the zoo moved away from the control of founder David Gill. CZC is headed up by Karen Brewer.

David Acland, partner at FRP Advisory, said: “We are working closely with the various stakeholders regarding next steps and our aim is to achieve the optimal solution for everyone involved.

“Since the management of the zoo operation was taken over by Cumbria Zoo Limited in 2017, the Company has experienced significant financial issues that culminated in the presentation of a winding up petition. Those financial issues could not be resolved and the director was left with no option other than administration

“It is important to stress that the administration does not impact the day-to-day running of the zoo as it is only its landlord that is affected. Importantly, the zoo has a long-term lease in place that provides security of tenure.”

The Mail has contacted Cumbria Zoo Company for a comment.