North Yorkshire Council unveils urban gull strategy for coastal towns
Approach aims to minimise gull impact in Scarborough, Whitby, Filey
North Yorkshire Council has introduced a proposed urban gull strategy, aiming to manage the growing presence of gulls in coastal town centres such as Scarborough, Whitby, and Filey. The initiative seeks to maintain a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.
Cllr Richard Foster, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for managing our environment, emphasised the need for a balanced approach: “Gulls are an intrinsic part of the North Yorkshire coast... However, their increasing presence does bring challenges. 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.”
The strategy focuses on practical measures such as reducing food waste, enhancing awareness, and deploying effective deterrents to support long-term coexistence with gulls.
The council's proposed plan stems from evidence and feedback from local businesses, conservation data, and consultation with entities including the Yorkshire Coast Urban Gull Partnership and Natural England. The aim is to understand gull behaviour better, limit their access to food, promote cleaner coastal areas, and ensure collaboration with landowners for prevention measures.
Cllr Liz Colling, chair of the Scarborough and Whitby area committee said: “I’m interested to see the proposals about how we can change our own behaviour on food waste and litter, and the impact it will make to the cleanliness of our coastal towns and the way that the gulls behave.”
The draft strategy will be reviewed at the Scarborough and Whitby area committee meeting later today (5th June). Following consultation, the council’s executive will decide whether to adopt the strategy later this year.