An oceanarium in Bournemouth, UK, is set to become home to a new colony of penguins following a £1.5m (US$2.4m, €1.9m) investment, which will increase the aquarium’s size by around a third.

The new development, privately funded by owners Parques Reuinidos, will centre around a penguin beach, pool and underwater viewing area, along with a special section where penguins and visitors can mingle during feeding time.

Also included in the two-storey extension, due to open in Q3 of 2015, will be a walk through aviary, sea view terrace, educational exhibits, additional catering facilities and a new staff area.

Work on the new development is scheduled to start on 13 October, with plans for the penguin enclosure having been in the works since 2009.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to build on our success and offer visitors more than ever before,” said aquarium director James Eels. “I am confident that the penguins will be an amazing addition and the penguin enclosure has been specially designed to ensure people can get up close and personal with the animals.