PLANS have been submitted to build a new red panda enclosure at West Midland Safari Park - with overnight luxury cabins for guests to see the park's newest residents up close.

The West Mids attraction has submitted plans to Wyre Forest District Council to introduce red pandas to their collection of animals.

This will be the first time red pandas will be housed at the park - with a new enclosure specifically-designed to allow the pandas to express their natural behaviours.

The plans also include renovation works to two existing cottages on the park's site, which will become luxury accommodation for guests to stay at overnight - authentically integrated into the panda's new habitat.

If plans are approved, building work would start this spring.

Angela Potter, head of wildlife at West Midland Safari Park, said: "We are excited at the prospect and honoured in the hope we can help look after this beautiful species and work to support their conservation in the wild.

"The new facilities will provide stimulating and enriching environments, including trees, climbing structures, nesting boxes and lots of planted bamboo.

"They will also have an air conditioned inside den to keep them content all year round."

Red pandas are endangered and can be found in the eastern Himalayas and Southwestern China. The wild population continues to decline due to habitat loss and poaching.

They live in trees and love eating bamboo using their sharp, curved claws to grip the stems.

Chris Kelly, managing director at the park, said: "Since last year, we have started an exciting new future at the park.

"We are committed to constantly improving our animal habitats and if approved, this development will give our guests the chance to see this beautiful species here for the very first time.

"The integration into the new exhibit will be two cottages, designed to give the occupants an immersive overnight wildlife experience with picturesque views of our red pandas.”

The proposed plan is part of a much bigger strategy to improve animal facilities and the overall guest experience.

This includes eight new luxury lodges, which are due to open in April, with stunning views of the park’s African elephants and cheetahs.

For more information on Safari Lodges, visit safari-lodges.co.uk.

In line with the latest government guidelines, West Midland Safari Park will reopen its doors on Monday, April 12, and tickets are now on sale.