Brief
African Forest is a conservation project set within beautiful woodland at Bristol Zoo and opened in April 2026. The project had a powerful mission to protect threatened species by creating larger, more natural habitats that prioritise animal welfare, and allowing species to live alongside each other.
Arc’s involvement began at an early stage, some two years before the build commenced, working with architects Grant Associates and Fielden Clegg Bradley Studios, we consulted on initial designs to support cost planning and budget development. Following the appointment of Beard Construction as Main Contractor, we took on responsibility for the design, supply, and installation of the African grey parrot enclosure.
Solution: Large Aviary Structure
Membrane: High strength 316 “marine grade” stainless steel mesh system
Structure: Galvanised steel and cable
Client: Bristol, Clifton and West of England Zoological Society
Main Contractor: Beard Construction
Architects: Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios & Grant Associates
Outcome
Our custom aviary design features a stainless-steel webnet integrated with stainless-steel cables and a galvanised and painted steel frame. To ensure the structure harmonises with its woodland setting, we applied a discreet paint finish to the frame and mesh. This overarching pattern effectively eliminates visual noise, rendering the enclosure virtually invisible within the forest.
We integrated bespoke welfare features, including specialised netting to discourage perching on steelwork and custom-engineered fixings for secure hanging feeders. These enhancements ensure a safer environment while streamlining daily husbandry.
The project presented unique logistical challenges, as the aviary was situated in a remote corner of a woodland site with limited access via narrow pathways and an uncompleted road. To navigate these constraints, we used compact 4WD plant machinery. The installation also had to be carried out from within the aviary, which required more skill and precision from our specialised installation teams.
The project was completed on time and within budget, and the client was extremely happy with the result.
A press report on the project can be seen here Premier Construction Issue 35-6
SPECIFICATIONS:
Aviary mesh
Jacob Rope Systems stainless steel mesh system pliable, high strength 316 “marine grade” certified by the German Institute for Building Technology (DIBt) (Z-14.7-557)
Supporting Cables:
Sta-Lok (ISO 9001) Swage and Toggle 8mm 7×19 Cable Assembly
Steel Frame:
CE Marking Certificate to execution level 2
NSSS tolerances using ISO-9001 Quality Assurance.
Grade S275 Steel (hollow sections grade S275.J.2H)
ARTICLES and PAGES:
Arc Structures – Animal Enclosures and Aviary Design
Zoo Enclosure Design: Crafting Safe, Natural Habitats for Animals
Animal Enclosures and Aviary Design
ASSOCIATE LINKS:
Bristol Zoo – African Rain Forest
Grant Associates – Bristol Zoo Project Masterplan
Fielden Clegg Bradley Studios – Bristol Zoo Project
Beard Construction – Bristol Zoo Project
