Former model Jodie Marsh has been given a new permit to care for monkeys following a lengthy legal dispute. The 47-year-old has been authorized to house 12 marmosets at her rescue center in Essex. Marsh’s battle with Uttlesford District Council ended in her favor, allowing her to obtain a license to care for these primates. She expressed her joy and relief at the council’s approval, emphasizing the importance of having the proper license to provide homes for marmosets under the new primate laws.

The recently enacted Animal Welfare (Primate Licences) (England) Regulations 2024 set forth stringent standards for primate welfare in England. Marsh’s primate license is valid from April 6, 2024, to April 5, 2029. She raised concerns about the fate of small monkeys if their owners fail to comply with the new regulations, fearing that many may face abandonment or euthanasia.

Known for her appearance on the ITV series Essex Wives in 2002, Marsh has diversified her animal sanctuary, Fripps Farm, with alpacas, emus, and reptiles. She also utilizes platforms like OnlyFans to support her sanctuary financially.

In a separate incident, Marsh faced allegations of assault at her farm in January and appeared in court last week. She denied the charges of assaulting a man and using threatening language, resulting in her being bailed until her trial in May next year.