Edinburgh Zoo has abandoned plans to move to an alternative site in the area around the city.

The Royal Zoological Society of Edinburgh says the value of the existing location in Corstorphine makes it the most appropriate venue.

A redevelopment programme for the zoo,, which attracts 500,000 visitors a year, is now planned.

It occupies 82 acres on Edinburgh's Corstorphine Hill.

The society carried out a feasibility study of other sites before reaching the decision.

Last year, zoo director Dr David Waugh said: "We are already internationally nationally renowned for our breeding programmes and conservation work and it is vital that we look into any idea that might help us further our aims."

Senior keeper Graham Catlow said: "What zoo wouldn't like to be able to start again?

"Instead of patching up old enclosures we could build a dream zoo where all the modern techniques of zoo animal management and welfare could be incorporated."