Merlin Entertainments' SEA LIFE Brighton wants the government to allow it to reopen at the same time as non-essential retail when national lockdown restrictions are eased.
The company that runs SEA LIFE Brighton has urged the government to treat indoor entertainment centres the same as non-essential retail.
Merlin Entertainments is also asking for the reduction in VAT for the tourism sector to be maintained at 5% and an extension of the business rates holiday.
The aquarium says it employs around 60 staff and is usually visited more than 300,000 times a year, with around 30-40% of its visitors travelling to the city to stay overnight.
General Manager of SEA LIFE, Neil Harris, said the aquarium is due to celebrate its 150th anniversary next year, making it the oldest aquarium in the world.
Neil explained:
"We are fully behind the national effort to overcome COVID-19. But as the Government begins the review of lockdown and looks to reopen the economy we are calling for indoor entertainment attractions like SEA LIFE Brighton to be treated the same as non-essential retail - and when they are allowed to reopen we should be able to open as well.
"Our guests have always been able to spend quality time and create lasting memories with their loved ones at our attractions and now, more than ever, Merlin has an important role to play in promoting the wellbeing of our visitors in a safe and low-risk environment.
"Our attractions can help promote healthier, happier and more connected communities, whilst addressing many of the most pressing health, social and environmental challenges we will face following the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We know it will be an invaluable benefit to these communities for us to reopen as soon as it's safe to do so."
Merlin's attractions are planning to implement Covid-secure measures such as pre-booking, temperature checks, social distancing and the wearing of masks by guests and team members.
Neil added:
"Our attractions are fully COVID-secure and have a range of safety precautions in place, including pre-booking, temperature checks, reduced capacity and a one way flow system with social distancing throughout.
"We are also asking the Government to keep the reduction in the VAT rate to 5 per cent and to extend the business rates holiday.
"SEA LIFE Brighton is a proud member of the local community and is 150 years old next year making it the oldest aquarium in the world, providing employment and boosting the local economy and we look forward to being able to welcome back our guests as soon as we are able to do so."
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