Concerns over bird nest and egg removal at DWP site in Bispham

A wildlife rescuer has spoken of his fury after work to remove bird eggs and nests was due to start at civil service buildings.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Mustafiz Rahmen, 27, visited the Warbreck House buildings off Warbreck Hill Road, Bispham, to confront workers earlier today (Friday May 22.)

He said he asked security guards to see the licences needed to get rid of the seagull and pigeon nests and eggs, and claims he was told: "No comment."

Mr Rahmen said: "Nobody would tell me anything.

Warbreck House, the Department for Work and Pensions site in Bispham.Warbreck House, the Department for Work and Pensions site in Bispham.
Warbreck House, the Department for Work and Pensions site in Bispham.
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"I've asked to see proof of the correct licences which have to be granted by Natural England to legally control wild birds, but there hasn't been any.

"At this time of year there will be baby chicks in those nests. What's going to happen to them, are they all going to be killed? I've even offered to take the chicks myself, but I'm getting no response from anyone here."

In an internal memo, civil servants were advised that the "work is carried out by experienced contractors who are acting in accordance with all appropriate legislation and with the correct licences in place," and "from past experience some people may be upset by this work, so managers are asked to be aware please and consider closing blinds if the contractors are working in their vicinity."

Mr Rahmen added: "All I care about is the welfare of these birds. I'm trying to preserve life by offering to take any chicks myself.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"What deterrents have been put into place before the decision was made to remove the eggs and nests? This is a Government building, tax payers have a right to know what's going on."

When asked if it had the proper permissions, the DWP at Warbreck House said: "DWP is unable to make a comment at this time."