One of the world’s leading experts on chimpanzees is backing plans to bring eight apes from an American research centre to Wingham Wildlife Park.

The park has already created a magnificent new £1.5 million, 12,700 square foot enclosure for the chimpanzees, but their arrival in Kent has been delayed by red tape.

The US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) says the transfer cannot be approved until a public consultation has been carried out, and has now extended the deadline for comments.

But chimpanzee expert Jane Goodall, of the respected Jane Goodall Institute, has already contributed her views, saying she is confident the primates will be happy and their lives enriched at Wingham.

She said: “I was able to visit the Wingham park last month and saw first hand the wonderful extensive indoor and outdoor housing which has been purpose built to receive chimpanzees.

“The staff there are well-qualified, caring and have already visited the Yerkes research centre to meet the members of the group.

“The owners are committed to ensuring the long-term care of these chimpanzees and to enriching their lives.

“Having considered all the factors involved in the transportation and rehabilitation of these chimps, my conclusion is that Wingham will provide them with a suitable new home for life.

“There are hundreds of ex-lab, pet and entertainment chimps in the US needing sanctuary.

"Admittedly, this is only eight, but at least they will be catered for.”

Park owner Tony Binskin said: “There is a real opportunity for the people of Kent to get involved and let the USFWS know Wingham is well prepared to care for Fritz, Lucas, Georgia, Tara, Abby, Agatha, Elvira and Faye, and looks forward to giving these eight animals a loving home for life.

“We appreciate the great support and understanding that everyone has shown over the past months while we have been building the new facility and awaiting the necessary transfer paperwork.”

Wingham Wildlife Park is appealing to supporters to visit the online USFWS consultation and leave a comment backing the transfer by February 22.

It can be found at http://1.usa.gov/1Q8DiCB.