A popular attraction at Harewood House is set to close much to the sadness of many.
The Harewood House Trust has announced the Leeds attraction’s bird garden will shut later this year. The team have cited a lack of financial funding as one of the reasons for the decision.
In a statement, posted online, they said: “As Harewood House Trust looks to its long-term future, it has to consider what Harewood will look like in five, 10, 25 years’ time from now and beyond, to ensure we stay relevant and able to remain open for everyone to enjoy.
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“Harewood’s bird garden is now over 50 years old and, as visitors have pointed out to us consistently over the past few years, the birds’ environment is not on a par with more up-to-date zoos. At Harewood’s last zoo inspection, the team were praised for their excellent care and the health of the birds, but sadly they identified many problems with the site’s physical infrastructure that the charity cannot sustain.
“Over the last six months, we have been researching options for the charity going forwards, however, with a need for a £4m investment to just the Bird Garden alone, the Trust has had to make the incredibly difficult decision to close this part of the Harewood experience.
“The closure date of the bird garden will be published later in the year and we will post updates on social media as the birds are rehomed around the world.
“It has been an incredibly difficult conclusion to reach but it is the most responsible and ethical decision to make, to ensure the health and care of these beautiful creatures, but also to ensure Harewood can stand the test of time and be here for as long as it has stood already.”
Many have taken to social media to express their sorrow at the decision to close the bird garden. Mary Robbins said: “I have such precious memories of the bird garden with my family. They will live forever. My favourite bird was a rook who played ‘sticks’ with me, before my husband ‘rounded me up’ for refreshments. I could have been there all day with that bird.”
Lisa Robinson added: “So sad. I have a lifetime of memories from here. However, the most important thing is the welfare of these beautiful creatures. I have felt they have not been in the best place for some time.”
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Matthew William Hirst wrote: “Very sad, I hope you will look to make sure they are suitably rehomed.” Kale Stevenson added: “Thank you for putting the welfare of the birds first - even if it is sad.”
Emily Wade concluded: “I am very pleased to hear this news. When I visited I decided not to return as I thought the enclosures were very small and I worried for the birds welfare. Will happily return to Harewood now this is not part of the experience. Well done for making this decision.”
We will keep you posted on the closing date of the bird garden and further information about them being rehomed.
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