North Yorkshire unveils strategy to manage gulls in coastal towns
New measures aim to balance urban gull presence with community needs
North Yorkshire Council is introducing new measures to manage gull populations in its coastal towns of Scarborough, Whitby, and Filey, as part of a proposed urban gull strategy.
Efforts have started with the roll-out of gull-proof litter bins in Scarborough, featuring strong metal flaps to prevent gulls from accessing the rubbish.
The strategy aims to address the challenges posed by the growing number of gulls in urban areas, balancing the need to protect these species with minimising their impact on residents, businesses, and visitors.
Residents will receive gull-proof sacks, and seasonal street jet-washing will occur, funded by an initial allocation of £119,500.
Cllr Richard Foster, said: “Gulls are a defining feature of the county’s coastal communities, however, their growing number in urban areas creates challenges.
“Although we can put measures in place to manage their impact, our message to the public is to stop feeding them – they are opportunists and any encouragement can lead to scavenging and taking food.
“This proposed strategy sets out a clear, balanced approach that recognises both the importance of protecting these species and the need to minimise their impact on residents, businesses and visitors.
“Through targeted actions such as reducing food waste, improving awareness and using effective deterrents, we can support a long-term future to live alongside our gull populations and ensure our coastal towns remain clean, safe and welcoming places for everyone.”