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Pigeon problem fury

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By Fiona Reid
Lockerbie and Lochmaben
Pigeon problem fury

PROBLEMS with pigeons roosting in some of Lockerbie’s empty buildings have been raised again.

Community council treasurer Helen Haggart contacted the local authority about the birds in Tower Buildings.

She said: “It was reported as a health and safety issue. It’s disgusting.

“There are trees growing out of those buildings too. That has also been reported to the council.”

However, she was told that as the property is not owned by the local authority they cannot take any action.

But at Tuesday night’s meeting, Annandale North Councillor Stephen Thompson advised that steps can be taken.

He said: “There are about four different owners and the council did manage to get action in the past to get the windows shut as the birds were getting in.

“The council can take action if it’s a public safety risk, but it’s when it becomes that.”

Chairwoman Jan Andrews pointed out windows are missing again on the building and said she believes there are safety implications, adding: “We want someone to look at it. Trees are growing out of the stones, it’s loosening the structure as they get bigger. We want them removed.”

Member Lucie Dudgeon warned: “If a stone comes out then it will hit somebody.”

She also raised the issue of bird poo on the pavements and said manual wheelchair users were being exposed to health problems too as a result.

Cllr Thompson replied: “Street cleaning needs a push but prevention of this is a bigger issue.”

The group agreed to go back to Dumfries and Galloway Council on the matter.

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