College becomes first in North East Lincolnshire to secure primate licence

Grimsby Institute says it believes it is the first facility in North East Lincolnshire to be granted a primate licence, allowing the college to house and care for three marmosets at its new animal management centre.

The BBC reported that licence — issued under the Animal Welfare (Primate Licences) (England) Regulations 2024 — permits the college to keep the trio, named Tango, Cola and Sprite, in purpose‑built accommodation used for student training and animal care.

Lead animal technician Zoe Lansley‑Hogg said staff were “really proud” to have met the strict welfare standards required.

“This licence is really important to us. It means a great deal not just for the marmosets but also the students,” she said.

Lansley‑Hogg said the new licensing regime was designed to protect primates and hoped it would help curb the private pet trade.

“It’s a positive step for primates. The licences are there to help animals in captivity and to make sure we’re providing them with the best possible care,” she added.

Under the 2024 regulations, anyone privately keeping a primate in England must now hold a licence, valid for up to three years. North East Lincolnshire Council said keepers who fail to obtain one could face prosecution, with penalties including fines or up to six months’ imprisonment.

Alongside the marmosets, staff and students at the institute care for a range of species year‑round, including meerkats, goats, sheep, insects and guinea pigs, as part of the college’s animal management curriculum.

Other primates requiring a licence include tamarins, squirrel monkeys, capuchins, lemurs and lorisids (bush babies).

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