Newtownards "Pigeon problem" to be tackled by local council

The “pigeon problem” in Newtownards is to be addressed by the local council.

At Ards and North Down Council’s recent Environment Committee, elected members agreed to a motion forwarded by DUP Alderman Stephen McIlveen to “humanely” reduce the amount of pigeons harassing people as they relax in the town’s main square.

The motion, which received unanimous support across party lines, states: “Given the public health issues and the desire to encourage outdoor eating and entertainment in Conway Square, officers (will) look at humane means to address the pigeon problem, to include a new bylaw to prohibit feeding of the birds in and around the square, and to erect in the meantime advisory signs to deter feeding of birds in the area.”