Calls for more action on gull concerns

CONCERNS about seagulls throughout Dumfriesshire have been raised in the Scottish Parliament.

South Scotland MSP Craig Hoy spoke in a debate about the menace of seagulls throughout Scotland, highlighting this area as of particular concern.

He said: “Dumfries and Galloway Council is spending its full £84,000 in gull control measures in 2023-24. Investing in nest removal, gull proof bins and deterrents on buildings.

“But still, these are not working and I think this serves to show just how serious the issue is and how much NatureScot must listen to local communities because these council budgets are now being fully utilised.”

Mr Hoy is urging NatureScot to issue more licences, to a pre-2023 level to allow more control of gulls.

He later added: “Today’s gulls are larger and more aggressive than before due to more fast food for them to eat. It is down to the Scottish Government and Nature Scot to sort this problem.

“Residents shouldn’t have to live in fear of being attacked or change the way they walk because of nesting birds."