Don Foster

Liberal Democrats | Bath

Defra on board in gull fight

1 December 2009

A meeting set up by Bath MP Don Foster has seen Defra finally agree that the problems caused by urban gulls need to be addressed.

Yesterday [Monday 30th November], a meeting organised by Don Foster MP took place at the Defra offices in Bristol to discuss the problems of urban gulls in the "Severn Estuary" area.

Present were representatives of Defra, Natural England, and officers and councillors from some of the affected councils including B&NES. Gull expert Peter Rock also attended and made a presentation.

Government officials were left in no doubt about the view of all councils present that urban gulls are causing serious problems for our communities. Council representatives detailed the work they had being doing to tackle the problem but acknowledged that many of the measures used either didn’t work or merely moved the problem to a neighbouring area. They argued that more research is needed to help identify more appropriate solutions.

However, it was also agreed that the most effective action would come from councils working together. As a result, further meetings have been planned.

Additionally, Defra has agreed to discuss with the Environment Agency ways of ensuring that there is greater bird control on landfill sites which provide food for many gulls.

Bath MP Don said, "After my adjournment debate earlier this year in parliament, this is an important step forward. Back then the government refused to admit there was even a problem with urban gulls.

"These birds blight the lives of many people, be it through noise, creating a mess or even attacking people. We need real research to help us understand what measures will effectively combat the rising gull population.

"I am very pleased that Defra is now engaging seriously with this issue."