Bridgnorth councillors back anti-pigeon 'fire gel'

A gel which tricks birds into thinking their favourite landing spots are on fire could be used to tackle a pigeon problem in Bridgnorth.

Councillors in Bridgnorth last night backed a suggestion that the gel be used on buildings in the town.

A report to the property and grounds committee meeting said the birds had become a problem in the town centre, especially around the town hall and Postern Gate. The town council had been approached by a national company offering to apply a non-toxic gel to the buildings.

The issue will now go to the full council for it to have the final say.

Anne Wilson, locum town clerk, said the bird repellent had been used successfully in places such as Covent Garden in London.

Adrian Tacchi, committee chairman, said: "I think it seems quite brilliant that you can come up with a gel that pigeons and gulls and the like think is fire. I was particularly pleased that this firm has offered to do it for free.

"We should not look a gift horse in the mouth.

"I think we should give this further consideration."

Councillor Paul Tacchi questioned whether there would be any damage to the buildings from the gel, as those where it could be used were particularly old.

Mrs Wilson said that the gel was placed in pots on buildings.

Councillor Ray Gill said they were currently waiting for the town hall to be painted and wondered whether this would affect using the gel.

Councillor Adrian Tacchi added: "Perhaps we can go ahead with this on the strict understanding it's no cost to the council."

He added: "It's positive advertising for the council."