The provision of a herring gulls dispersal and disruption programme in parts of Whitby, Scarborough and Filey

Tender description

The coastal towns of Whitby, Scarborough and Filey have experienced problems with urban gulls for a number of years. The presence of seagulls in the borough is to be expected, given its close proximity to the North Sea coastline. The two main species of gulls present locally are the herring gulls and kittiwakes and the main public health and safety issues experienced take place during the breeding season for these species (approximately at the start of March, finishing at the beginning of September each year). The major influx of visitors during spring and summer holiday seasons provide a significant food source for herring gulls This issue has been high on the agenda for the Council for some time, and some mitigating action has already been achieved. But, with only limited statutory duty to act and the presence of diminishing budgets there is a need for a partnership approach involving local people, building or business owners, tourist and public agencies, neighbouring councils and central government. This Tender is to cover the herring gulls breeding seasons of 2018 and 2019 (March to September) the budget for which has been confirmed following the Council’s Cabinet meeting on 12 December 2017. Keywords: Herring Gull Dispersal and Disruption