Bingley’s Woodbank Garden Centre & Nurseries has made a decision to cancel a planned reptile market, which was set to take place on June 22, 2025. The announcement was made on the centre’s official Facebook page on Wednesday, June 11, 2025.
The centre’s decision has been applauded by various animal welfare organizations for being responsible and in line with the advice received from Bradford City Council. The council warned of potential illegal activities taking place at the event, which could also result in violations of the centre’s pet shop license.
This move by Woodbank Garden Centre adds to the growing list of venues across the UK that have refused to host or be associated with reptile markets. Local council enforcement has significantly improved in recent years, in parallel with the increased public awareness surrounding the abhorrent animal welfare conditions that are typically found at these events. As a result, the International Herpetological Society – the organizer of this large-scale event – appears to be running out of options.
Reptile markets are often mislabeled as “shows” or “breeders’ meetings,” when in reality they are commercial markets that involve the sale of thousands of animals. These animals are often confined in small, plastic containers, restricting their movement and denying them the ability to stretch or turn around. Basic necessities such as food, water, and proper environmental conditions are often neglected, leading to extended periods of deprivation and suffering for the animals.
Elaine Toland, Director of the Animal Protection Agency, stated, “The actions of the officers and members of Bradford City Council have sent a clear message that animal welfare is a top priority. Woodbank Garden Centre should be commended for taking the responsible step of canceling the event. As long as these outdated practices continue, we will continue to be a voice for animal welfare and oppose reptile markets.”
Laura Walton, Campaigns Manager for Freedom for Animals, added, “These events are not shows, but rather trade events that exploit thousands of vulnerable animals. We are grateful to Woodbank Garden Centre for making the ethical decision to cancel the event.”
Charlotte Regan, Wildlife Campaigns Manager for World Animal Protection, also voiced her support for the centre’s decision. She stated, “We are pleased to hear that the planned reptile market at Woodbank Garden Centre has been canceled. Reptiles and amphibians are wild species with complex welfare needs, and their exploitation at events like these is unacceptable in today’s society.”
The Animal Protection Agency, World Animal Protection, and Freedom for Animals are working together towards putting an end to the inhumane trading of wild animals at markets. Their efforts align with the growing public sentiment against these outdated and exploitative practices.
