JOBS at West Midland Safari Park could be at risk as new owners carry out a 'full scale review' of the park and its operations.

A safari park worker told The Shuttle the workforce could be cut by up to 30 per cent, but a park spokesman insisted 'no decision has been made'.

The employee, who asked to remain anonymous, said: "This is going to have a massive impact on the local economy as it’s the biggest employer in the area.

"I’m a current employee of over 10 years service and have never seen the park in such a mess."

The Spring Grove Road safari park, which is home to around 140 species including elephants, rhino, and lions, was taken over by French leisure provider The Looping Group in December.

It attracted around 700,000 visitors to Wyre Forest last year.

A spokesman for the safari park admitted a 'full scale review' was underway and said any potential redundancies would be discussed with staff.

They said: "The senior management team of the West Midland Safari Park, along with the new owners Looping Group, are currently undertaking a full scale review of the park, its operations and the investment plans for next year’s development.

"However, we must be clear that no decision has been made regarding any job losses at the park.

"Once the business review has been completed, we would, if necessary, discuss any potential redundancy situation directly with our employees."

West Midland Safari Park is the 15th amusement park to be operated by The Looping Group, which already runs parks in France, Switzerland, the Netherlands and Germany.

The company, launched in 2011, is expected to count around 4.3million visitors this year for a turnover exceeding €100m.