The Cornish Seal Sanctuary has taken a big step in its major redevelopment project.

In 2022, the seal sanctuary based in Gweek launched a £1.3 million fundraising campaign to raise vital funds to futureproof the Sanctuary and provide world-class facilities for seal conservation for the next generation.

The project will see the replacement of four pools which are currently still on-site – making it one of the biggest re-developments projects the charity has seen in its 64-year history.

Falmouth Packet: Plans include the demolition of existing pools to be replaced with better facilities Plans include the demolition of existing pools to be replaced with better facilities (Image: Supplied)At the time, Jana Sirova, head of sanctuaries at Sea Life Trust, said: “With more than 60 years already under our belts, the Cornish Seal Sanctuary is embedded into the hearts of our local residents and guests alike.

“This campaign, one of our biggest to date, is all about safeguarding.”

“From grandparents who remember visiting as children, to the youngsters now coming through our doors for the first time, our work continues to inspire generations to care for and support our wild marine species.

Now in 2024, the Sanctuary has taken the next step in the redevelopment plans, by submitting a planning application to Cornwall Council for the existing pools to be demolished and the construction of new pools and associated equipment and viewing areas. However, the council have yet to decide on the proposal.

Falmouth Packet: Plans also include a better underwater viewing area for visitors Plans also include a better underwater viewing area for visitors (Image: Supplied)The redevelopment plans include a brand new underwater viewing area with seating, as well as increased education spaces to build community engagement with schools and organisations across Cornwall and beyond.

It also planned for a new state-of-the-art filtration system for improved access for the animal care team at the Sanctuary. The new pools will be centred around exceeding all recommended standards in marine mammal care to date.

An assessment put together for Sea Life Trust by Karn Geoservices Ltd, of Truro, states that: “The site currently comprises rehabilitation pools for wild sea mammals, along with the associated hardstanding and a grassed area in the north of the site.

“The site covers an area of 0.46 hectares. It is proposed to redevelop the site for replacement and improved infrastructure, no change of use is proposed, under the planning application reference PA22/ 00703/ PREAPP.”