Netting 'killing birds' on Christchurch buildings

NETTING on thatched buildings in Christchurch is causing death and injury to birds, councillors have been told.

A public question to at a recent full BCP Council meeting asked for action in Bridge Street, writes Trevor Bevins of the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

A resident said during the public session that several birds had died, trapped in the netting, through stress, dehydration and starvation.

“This is cruel and unacceptable,” he said, asking what the council was able to do about the situation.

Deputy leader Cllr Philip Broadhead said the council was currently reviewing relevant legislation but warned the authority might not have any control over the netting.

He said it appeared to be up to individuals how they wanted to maintain their property.

He added: “We understand the concern, however, and have referred to Natural England as the lead for the protection of the natural environment and who may have greater influence on this matter at a national level.”