AN UPGRADED gift shop and new entrance will soon be complete at Colchester Zoo.

Phase 3 of The Outpost Gift Shop is due to open mid to end September. The final phase of the new gift shop will see the introduction of a Coffee Lounge.

The Coffee Lounge and gift shop are both accessible without having to pay admission into the zoo.

Phase 2 of the new entrance is also underway with the ticket office structure being built. This building will link into the new admissions building.

This building is due to open at Easter and will be the completion of the investment into the new entrance to the zoo.

Moving into the park, the Rainbow lorikeet aviary is closed until early October as the aviary receives some essential maintenance including interior design improvements.

Penguin Shores is due a complete redevelopment and it will be closed for about six months.

The zoo said: "Penguin Shores is an enclosure which is over 20 years old now and although still one of the most popular enclosures, Colchester Zoo feel it is due a refresh.

"The penguins will remain visible at the Inca Trail enclosure as they join the other group of Humboldt Penguins whilst this work takes place.

"Once complete this area will be unrecognisable and offer a new home to our group of Humboldt penguins providing a new filtration system and environment for them to live in along with a brand-new viewing area for visitors to watch the penguins swim underwater too."

The zoo is in the process of creating a new education centre. The design of a purpose-built facility is underway to provide an improved experience for students and is subject to planning consent.

The zoo added: "We are always making improvements to our facilities, we are due to begin the development of a new toilet facility near to our wolves and tigers as an additional toilet facility available for them during their visit.

"It is hoped all of these developments will further enhance visitors experience. To keep you in the know, we will update our website and social media with news and progress of these developments."