'Seagull-proofing' plan proposed

The council has plans to tackle the seagull problem

Councillors have hatched a new plan which the hope will help rid Dumfries of its seagull problem.

It will mean that all new non-domestic buildings in the area will be subject to a planning condition that their roofs are made seagull-proof.

The move was unanimously agreed by members at a meeting of Nithsdale area regulatory committee.

Committee chairman Jack Groom said it showed the authority was "taking this issue seriously".

The requirement will also apply to non-domestic change of use applications or extensions in that sector.

We have the worst problem in Scotland outside Aberdeen, and it needs tackled for the benefit of locals and tourists alike Cllr Jack Groom

Councillors have instructed officials to investigate what will prove the best deterrent, with a form of netting seen as the most likely option.

Problems with the mess caused by seagulls and their swooping at members of the public were raised recently with Environment Minister Mike Russell.

Mr Groom said this latest move must be a step in the right direction.

"I am delighted that councillors were unanimous in this decision," he said.

"We have the worst problem in Scotland outside Aberdeen, and it needs tackled for the benefit of locals and tourists alike.

"But at the end of the day we all have a part to play in making sure the gulls have less waste food on which to feed."

The move was proposed by Lochar ward councillor Jeff Leaver during discussions of plans near Huntingdon Road and St Mary's Industrial estate in the town.

'Really unbearable'

He said he "strongly believed" it should become a standard planning condition in Dumfries.

"We know that there are a number of industrial units in Dumfries where gulls nest and we should be doing more to prevent this," he said.

He was supported by Nith ward councillor John Martin.

"I fully back this move to put such a condition on all industrial developments," he said.

"The problems, especially at this time of year, caused by gulls are really unbearable for local residents living nearby."