PROPOSALS for the transformation of an equitation centre into a zoo for non-domesticated herbivores, including rhinoceroses has been met with support locally.

CFTR Zoo Trading Ltd, working alongside Care for the Rare Ltd, applied for a change of use of the St Leonard’s Equitation Centre, which is still operating, to become a zoo — primarily housing rhinos, with the application under consideration by Cornwall Council.

While there has been a mixed response by members of the public who responded to the consultation with comments both in favour and against the plans, local stakeholders have given the proposal an enthusiastic show of support.

Launceston Town Council said: “The town council fully supports this application as it will provide employment and local a visitor attraction as well as supporting wildlife preservation.”

St Stephens by Launceston Rural Parish Council said it was also in favour, telling Cornwall Council: “We concur with Launceston that the application should be approved subject to the normal licences. We believe that such a unique attraction would benefit our area and would have a positive impact on conservation.”

Andrew Crichton, chair of Launceston Rugby Club said it supported the plans of its new neighbours, stating: “Launceston Rugby Club would like to express its full support for the proposed Rhino conservation and rescue at Polson, at the former St Leonard’s Equestrian Centre.

“We believe this project will offer strong educational value, create community and volunteering opportunities, and bring positive attention to Launceston through its commitment to wildlife conservation. The redevelopment of this site for a meaningful and sustainable purpose will be an asset to the local area.

“Both we and St Leonards benefited from shared use of a car park, and this arrangement will continue.”

“We therefore support the approval of planning permission and look forward to the community benefits it will bring.”

The plans can be viewed using reference PA25/06781.