Rise in gull complaints leads to new action plan

A rise in complaints about seagulls on the North Yorkshire coast has led to the creation of a new strategy to tackle the birds' behaviour.

People in Scarborough, Whitby and Filey have reported gulls snatching their food and "causing distress and sometimes injury," according to North Yorkshire Council.

The authority has drafted a new strategy which aims to address issues around noise, mess and aggressive behaviour.

But a report said the birds also "add to the charm, character and appeal of the coast for visitors".

The council plans to carry out a survey of herring gull and kittiwakes nesting sites within town centres, as well as launching a consultation on the impact of the birds.

In 2023, concerns were raised that a £30,000 project to remove the nests of endangered kittiwakes from Scarborough Spa Bridge may have led to an increase in gulls nesting in the town centre.

The strategy must "enable healthy populations of gulls to co-exist alongside" residents, businesses and visitors, the report said.

Gull-proof litter bins and rubbish bags could also be introduced, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The council has a £14,000 budget for cleaning up after the bids, the report said.

A 15-month consultation on the plans will begin this month, according to the council.

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