Hoo Zoo & Dinosaur World vows to fight 118% licence charge rise plans
"As a small, family-run business, we are already facing significant financial pressures from rising energy costs, increased council rates, and higher wages. This proposed increase would place further strain on an already challenged sector."Dorrell said it was "particularly troubling" that the cost of renewing a zoo licence would exceed the price of applying for one as a new businesses, describing it as a "what feels like a loyalty penalty for established operators". "The scale of the proposed increase, especially when compared to other licensing fees, raises serious concerns about fairness - particularly given that there are only two zoos within the borough," he added.Other types of fees and charges set by the council are set to rise, but some are also earmarked to fall.Street traders looking to ply their business for one day in Telford & Wrekin face a 120% increase. Some taxi driver fees could rise up to 36%.Horse inspection fees are recommended to fall by up to 69%, with new licences for dog breeding earmarked for a 34% fall.A public consultation exercise has been proposed to start later this month.
