Signs put up byBrentCouncil threaten residents with aprisonsentence of up to five years or an unlimited fine if they are caught feedingbirds.
A wildlife officer has described the signs near the bridge atKilburnLondon Underground Station as “shockingly heavy handed and clearly illegal” and is urging the local authority to remove them.
Signs put up on Christchurch Avenue in Kilburn – translated into five South Asian languages and displaying theBrent Councillogo – suggest the act of feeding pigeons would constitute a “crime against our streets”. The council said the signs were outdated and apologised for any confusion caused.
They warn residents that committing this offence could result in them being cooped up in prison for up to five years – a similar sentence given to perpetrators of violent crimes, such as causing grievous bodily harm (GBH), certain firearms offences, and high-level drug supply.
Wildlife rescue volunteer Michael Britton, who works with groups including Pigeon Recovery and London Wildlife Protection, said he was “absolutely shocked and dismayed” to learn of the signs. Mr Britton said they are “the most outrageous” ones he had ever seen, describing them as “completely unacceptable and morally wrong”.
Brent Council has implemented a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) prohibiting the feeding of wild animals – including birds in parks, open spaces, and cemeteries in order to reduce antisocial behaviour and hygiene issues related to their faeces.
However, the council’s own documents state that failing to comply with this could only result in a fine “not exceeding level 3” – which is up to a maximum of £1,000. Failure to pay the fine may result in a further conviction.
Mr Britton said: “I believe the whole PSPO strategy in Brent requires urgent review, and they must remove feeding wildlife as an offence. However, these new ridiculous signs are a whole different matter.
“[It’s] absolutely outrageous, illegal and I believe someone must be held accountable. If we allow the council to diminish what little compassion remains in our society, we’re all doomed.”
A student recently posted on Reddit claiming she was given a £100 fine by council officers for feeding pigeons whilst walking through a park in Kilburn. The post read: “I had a slice of bread with me and I fed it to some pigeons along the way. Next thing I know, two enforcement officers are walking up to me and handing me a fine for £100.
Source: Drudge Report
