Brent Council Apologises for 'Illegal' Bird Feeding Threat Signs
Residents in a London borough were confronted with council signs threatening up to five years in prison or an unlimited fine for feeding birds, sparking outrage and accusations of illegality. The notices, erected by Brent Council on Christchurch Avenue in Kilburn, have since been condemned as "shockingly heavy handed and clearly illegal" by a wildlife rescue volunteer.
Outrage Over 'Crime Against Our Streets' Wording
The signs, which were written in English and five South Asian languages, described feeding birds as a 'crime against our streets'. They stated the penalty for such an act could be up to five years in prison or an unlimited fine, with the reward being cleaner streets. This language has drawn sharp criticism for its severity, especially when compared to typical sentences for violent crimes like grievous bodily harm or high-level drug offences, which often carry similar prison terms.
Michael Britton, a volunteer with Pigeon Recovery and London Wildlife Protection, expressed his dismay, saying he was "absolutely shocked and dismayed" by the "outrageous" signs. He suggested the council could face legal action, branding the notices as "bullying, dictatorial, threatening and racist" for targeting specific cultures. Britton argued that the signs constitute a malicious prosecution threat, making Brent Council liable to be sued.
Council's Apology and Enforcement Context
Brent Council has now apologised for the wording on the signs, which are two years old. Labour councillor Krupa Sheth, the cabinet member for public realm and enforcement, stated: "We are sorry for any confusion caused by this old sign. While Brent takes a tough approach to environmental offences, the wording does not reflect how we would communicate with residents today."
The council has implemented a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) that bans feeding wild animals, including birds, in parks, open spaces, and cemeteries. This measure aims to reduce antisocial behaviour and hygiene issues related to faeces. However, council documents clarify that non-compliance can only result in a fine of up to £1,000, with failure to pay potentially leading to further conviction—not the severe penalties advertised on the signs.
Recent Incident Highlights Enforcement Issues
The controversy follows a recent incident where a student received a £100 fine for feeding pigeons in a Kilburn park. The woman, who has autism, described on Reddit how enforcement officers issued the fine after she fed bread to birds during a walk. She questioned the fairness of the penalty, noting the sign was small and placed 7 feet high on a distant pole, making it difficult for her to see. "£100 is a month's groceries for me," she added, highlighting the financial impact.
Councillor Sheth emphasised the council's commitment to keeping neighbourhoods clean and safe, citing a 53% reduction in fly-tipping incidents and a fivefold increase in fines as evidence of their zero-tolerance approach. She assured that while enforcement remains firm, messaging will be "clear, proportionate and fair" moving forward.
This incident underscores the tension between environmental enforcement and community relations, with Brent Council now seeking to balance strict policies with more appropriate communication strategies.
