Zoo bosses are celebrating after their licence was renewed for six more years.
Barrow Council's licensing committee agreed after a mammoth hearing which was held behind-closed-doors yesterday and lasted for nearly five hours that Cumbria Zoo Company Ltd can continue to operate the attraction.
Karen Brewer, CEO of the firm which runs the Dalton zoo, said it was 'absolutely fantastic' news.
She said: “We are over the moon, every one of us.
“We can just get on with things for the next six years, it's wonderful.
“I would also like to thank everybody for their support.
“I want the general public to know that we are very grateful for their support over the nine months with the Covid restrictions, and thanks also for adopting animals and buying tickets.