In light of recent media reports that two of Kent's most popular visitor attractions - Howletts and Port Lympne Wild Animal Parks, will remain open, management at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park have announced that they will continue to invest and develop the popular short break accommodations.

In an article published in a local newspaper, Chairman of The Aspinall Foundation, Damian Aspinall has said that whilst there continues to be a need for 'real conservation' he will keep the wild animal parks open, as all visitor monies go towards helping the parks realise their ambition to become breeding sanctuaries for some of the most rare and endangered species on the planet.

Bob O'Connor, Managing Director said: "We want to assure our visitors that Howletts and Port Lympne Wild Animal Parks will not close – in fact we are heavily investing and developing our award winning accommodations at Port Lympne to help generate the necessary funds for our conservation projects both in the UK and overseas."

Plans are underway to convert the stunning Mansion and Gardens at Port Lympne, commissioned by the socialite, Sir Phillip Sassoon, over 100 years ago into a unique boutique hotel and a further investment will see the development of luxury tree lodges - where guests will have the opportunity to stay in the height of luxury overlooking the 600 acre park.

Bob added: "There are exciting times ahead. In times of economic downturn it is necessary to diversify and build on strengths already established. We already offer three unique ways to stay at Port Lympne – our multi award winning Livingstone Lodge, glamping at Elephant Lodge and our luxury rural retreat, Livingstone Cottage. Their popularity has shown us that there is room for more investment. We are committed to the county of Kent and we believe that these new accommodations will bring even more visitors to the area."

Both Howletts, near Canterbury and Port Lympne, near Ashford work with The Aspinall Foundation, the world leading conservation charity, dedicated to breeding endangered species at the parks, with a view to returning them to protected areas in the wild.

The parks have announced that they will continue to offer the popular Passport ticket - the one day ticket that lasts all year, in a move designed to give visitors value for money and the opportunity to visit as often as they wish for free for an entire year.

Carole Thomas, Communications Manager said: "There will be so much going on at both parks over the summer holidays and lots of new arrivals to spot too – it's the perfect day out with the family."

For further information including park opening times, entry prices, special events and details of short break accommodations please visit www.aspinallfoundation.org