As Lead Designers, INVVU Construction Consultants are proud to say that planning permission has now been obtained for ‘Lion Lookout’, a truly exceptional overnight experience that will bring guests closer than ever to Europe’s largest lion enclosure.

This visionary project at Port Lympne Reserve in Kent will feature 12 luxury, all-weather pods, each thoughtfully perched on raised verandas overlooking the habitat of the reserve’s iconic lion pride – Hunter, Oudrika, and her five daughters.

Developed over an epic two-year process from concept to approval, Lion Lookout reflects INVVU’s dedication to delivering complex, high-quality design solutions. Designed in close collaboration with Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve, each safari-style accommodation offers uninterrupted views and total immersion in the wildlife experience.

INVVU has shaped every aspect of Lion Lookout with a strong commitment to environmental sensitivity, immersive guest experience, and design excellence. From the elevated timber walkway connecting the accommodations to the careful integration of the structures within the woodland landscape, the design harmonises with the natural environment while ensuring minimal ecological impact.

While INVVU’s reputation is well-established in the rail sector, this project demonstrates that our capabilities extend far beyond rail, encompassing innovative design for tourism, conservation, and experiential architecture.

We are proud to be at the forefront of a project that embodies the spirit of conservation, sustainability, and innovation in guest experience. Lion Lookout will mark another milestone in Port Lympne’s mission to offer ethical, immersive wildlife stays that connect people more deeply with nature. We can’t wait to see our designs come to life.

INVVU Managing Director, Phil Johnson, said:
“We are thrilled to have received official planning consent for Lion Lookout. After two years from concept to approval, this milestone brings our clients’ vision one step closer to realisation. This has been a tremendous project to work on, with fantastic collaborators who have come together to overcome the numerous challenges and constraints of this unique site. Combining innovative design, environmental sensitivity, and an immersive guest experience, we can’t wait to see the project progress further and our designs come to life.”

INVVU’s Lyndsey Cann, Design Manager, said:
“It’s been an amazing project to lead, learning more about the lions and other adjacent animals and their needs, and integrating this incredible accommodation opportunity into the landscape – taking into account the lions, biodiversity, ancient woodland, steep slope, and the needs of both staff and future guests. We are thrilled that planning has been granted and cannot wait to continue supporting Port Lympne through the next stages of design and construction to see these ready for use.”

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to our collaborators: The Hobbs Parker Group | tree:fabrik @ Ross Dryburgh| Greenspace Ecological Solutions | Hill-Wood & Co (Kent) Ltd | Ashdown Site Investigation Ltd | J C White Geomatics Ltd | ANSurveys Ltd. | Canterbury Archaeological Trust  whose insight and expertise were instrumental in bringing this project to life, as well as our amazing team of architects, engineers, and designers.

For further information please contact us at info@invvu.co.uk