A POPULAR safari park and celeb hotspot got the green light to build accommodation overlooking its lion enclosure.
Construction of the 12 all-weather luxury “Lion Lookout” pods at the much-loved menagerie could begin as early as next year.
Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC) has approved the plans for the Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve, near Hythe, Kent, which will offer guests a safari-style overnight experience.
Port Lympne already features the £1,800-a-night Lion Lodge, known for hosting stars including Amanda Holden, Alison Hammond and Kelly Brook.
Guests will enjoy uninterrupted views of the big cats including daddy lion Hunter and mummy lion Oudrika, as well as their five cute cubs.
Managing director of Howletts and Port Lympne Estates, Tony Kelly, said: “I’m incredibly pleased we have been granted planning permission for our Lion Lookout plans.
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“Nestled alongside the largest lion enclosure in Europe and our pride of seven lions, this unique offer will extend our accommodation offering to our guests with uninterrupted close-up views of these magnificent animals.
“The accommodation will be aimed at a family audience and add to our already award-winning offerings.
“Whilst planning has been granted, there are several pre-commencement conditions to fulfil, but we would hope to start the project in late 2026.”
The site will be connected by a newly built timber walkway and designed to keep environmental impact to a minimum.
Each tent will will stand on a raised platform, including a veranda and private viewing area, carefully positioned among the trees so the landscape remains largely unchanged.
Bosses say the new development will complement Port Lympne’s existing luxury overnight stays, which attracted 82,000 visitors last year.
Other famous faces who visited the wildlife park include Emily Atack, Westlife’s Mark Feehily and Rio Ferdinand.
