Abbey Grounds swans at risk of firework display (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Abbey Grounds swans at risk of firework display

1:41pm Wednesday 16th May 2012 in Letters

AFTER reading today's Standard about the reaction over some of the arrangements for the planned event, I feel that I must clarify the legal situation regarding the swans and other birds on the lake and living in Cirencester Park.

The basic principle of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 is that all birds, their nests, eggs and young are afforded protection by law.

This refers to all birds listed on Schedule 1 of the Act and this means the swans, ducks and other wildfowl living on the lake together with all other birds nesting or roosting in the park.

I quote the actual wording of section (h) Schedule 1; ‘It is an offence to disturb any wild bird listed while it is nest building or is at (or near) a nest with eggs or young; or disturb the dependent young of such a nest’.

I am sure that I have no need to explain the consequences of a firework display, held in the immediate vicinity of the lake, would have on the inhabitants.

Also, if anyone has thoughts about moving the swans, I suggest they forget it, a very special licence is required for that sort of act and at this time of year would be almost impossible to get for such a reason. Remember the swan has complete protection 365 days every year.

A word to the organisers, please think again; why spoil an otherwise excellent programme of events for a 20-minute disastrous end. Why not end in the time honoured way with the National Anthem.

KEN TAYLOR Cirencester.