Feral pigeon menace at Bewdley Museum (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

Feral pigeon menace at Bewdley Museum

8:00am Friday 6th November 2009 in News

WYRE Forest District Council is seeking permission to install netting and spiking to deter feral pigeons at Bewdley Museum.

According to the council, the proposals have arisen as the result of an “ongoing situation” mainly concentrated in the back yard maintenance area of the museum.

A report submitted to the council’s planning committee says: “Inspection of the site shows the museum and the local area suffer from flocks of feral pigeons.

“The complex roof tops and maintenance back yard provide a haven for shelter with well established roosting sites.

“The build up of droppings is causing problems with smell and defacement of the historic building.

“Pigeon guano around the ledges, roofs and floor of the back yard especially is now a health hazard.

“A risk from disease pathogens associated with feral pigeons has become a serious concern.

“The ever increasing number of birds is putting pressure on other areas of the museum and the newly finished barn area is already receiving visits from pigeons trying to roost and nest.

“During the survey one bird was noticed nesting on the floor inside the main entrance to the building.”

The proposals have been subject to pre-application advice from both the conservation officer and English Heritage.

Stuart Allum, planning case officer, has recommended the application for delegated approval.

He said: “The proposed works are compatible with the historic character of these Grade II and Grade II* Listed Buildings and the character/appearance of the Bewdley Conservation Area would be preserved.”

The delegated authority would be subject to a decision by the Secretary of State via the Government Office for the West Midlands not to call in the application.

The bid will be determined on Tuesday at 6pm in Duke House, Clensmore Street, Kidderminster.