A Temporary Closure While We Relocate
The Association of Protecting Exotic Species CIC would like to inform supporters and visitors that our facility will be closed to the public from today until 21 March 2026 while we complete an important relocation.
Relocating a rescue and rehabilitation facility requires careful planning, safe transport procedures, and preparation of appropriate enclosures before animals can be settled.
During this short closure period our team will be focused entirely on safely relocating our residents and preparing the new site so that operations can resume responsibly.
Public access will reopen once relocation work has been completed.
Temporary Operational Base in St Helens
Our temporary operational base will be located in St Helens.
APES will be relocating to a temporary operational site in St Helens which will allow our rescue and rehabilitation work to continue while longer term plans are finalised.
The exact address will be released at the beginning of next week on 16 March 2026 so supporters can prepare for our reopening.
This temporary facility ensures our work protecting exotic species can continue without interruption during this transition period.
A Possible Permanent Home in Warrington
While the St Helens site will support our work in the short term, we are also preparing for what may become our next long term facility.
A separate unit located in Warrington is currently being prepared and repaired by the landlord.
The building requires roof repairs before it can meet the operational standards required for an exotic species rescue facility.
Once this work is completed and inspected, the Warrington site may become a permanent operational home for APES.
This staged approach allows animal welfare to remain the priority while infrastructure improvements are completed.
Urgent Support Needed For Outdoor Enclosures
Relocation presents additional welfare challenges, particularly when animals require specialised outdoor environments.
During the move we must urgently construct two outdoor enclosures for some of our most important residents.
Outdoor environments are critical for enrichment, natural behaviour, and recovery.
Without suitable outdoor space these animals may experience stress or reduced welfare during the transition.
Providing these enclosures ensures they continue to receive the care environment they require.
What Happens Next
Supporters can expect the following timeline.
Now until 21 March 2026
Public access temporarily paused while relocation work takes place.
16 March 2026
Temporary St Helens location address released.
21 March 2026
Reopening to visitors once animals are safely settled.
During this time we will continue to provide updates through our website and official communication channels.
Relocation Update Summary
Public closure period
From today until 21 March 2026
Temporary operational site
St Helens
Address release
16 March 2026
Potential permanent facility
Warrington subject to building repairs
Urgent priority
Outdoor enclosure construction for two residents
Our Commitment To Welfare
Relocation is never a simple task for an animal rescue organisation.
However every decision made by APES is guided by one principle.
Animal welfare must always come first.
Our team remains committed to providing safe rehabilitation environments, responsible exotic species care, and long term welfare solutions for animals that need protection.
We appreciate the patience and continued support of our community during this transition.
