The Bermuda Zoological Society hopes to revamp the playground at the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo and address eroded steps leading to the nearby coastline.

According to a recent planning application, the BZS intends to expand the playground with new equipment, modify adjacent exhibits and repair and expand a foreshore platform used to access the waters of Harrington Sound.

A document within the application states: “The existing playground and exhibits, while continuing to provide a public service and interest to the general public, are in need of major upgrade and renovation.

“BZS have researched and are actively campaigning to provide a new, exciting and safe environment for the general public to enjoy and to maintain and increase the interest and enthusiasm of existing and potential new patrons.

“To this end, a new bold, exciting and attractive design has been selected to replace the more traditional and somewhat dated approach to playground activities. Also, the animal exhibits are to benefit from new and exciting redesigns.”

Architectural drawings show the removal of the existing American alligator exhibit, with the nearby terrapin exhibit changed to a new alligator exhibit.

The application noted that stairs that lead from the area to the sound are “rather dangerous, uneven and have worn-away cuts in the natural stone” and new steps are required.

“This area is used for direct access for participants in the annual ‘Around the Sound’ charity swim,” the application said.

“This is a very important event in Bermuda’s social calendar and is sanctioned by Open Water Bermuda. It attracts many participants both locally and overseas and has done so for over 30 years.

“The existing rocky foreshore platform has also been eroded away over time and is now unsuitable as it stands for this purpose.”

The documents state that the proposal would provide a safe and level platform for race participants and a small viewing platform.