Residents of Bexley are expressing concern over the proximity of a funfair event to a swan nest located in a local park. The situation has sparked frustration among locals who fear the disturbance to the nesting swans.
The event, named “Dinosaurs in the Park,” is scheduled to take place in Danson Park from May 18 to June 9. However, it has raised alarm bells among wildlife advocates due to its close proximity to the swan nest, located less than 20 meters away.
Chris Smith, speaking on behalf of the Greenwich Wildlife Network, emphasized the significance of Danson Park’s wildlife, which includes various bird species and other creatures. He highlighted efforts to protect the swans by requesting the erection of protective fencing around the nest.
Despite these efforts, concerns escalated when it was discovered that the funfair was being set up beside the swan nest. The event, featuring life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and a crazy golf course, raised fears that noise and footfall could disturb the nesting swans, potentially violating wildlife protection laws.
Nicky Wilson, a local resident and member of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds Bexley committee, expressed frustration over the lack of consultation regarding the event’s placement. She emphasized that consultation could have mitigated the situation before the event’s setup began.
In response to community concerns, Bexley Council stated that they and event organizers were taking steps to protect the nesting swans. Daily meetings have been held to adjust the event’s layout and minimize disruption to the nest while allowing the event to proceed.
The council urged visitors to the park to respect the measures taken to protect the swans. Additional fencing has been installed around the nest, and signage will remind visitors to be mindful of the local wildlife.
Despite these reassurances, some residents feel that wildlife concerns are not given enough priority when planning events. While understanding that the event was planned before the swan nested in its current location, residents believe that more could have been done to relocate the event site.
As the event approaches, organizers have assured the public that measures are in place to preserve wildlife and their habitats. They emphasized adherence to wildlife protection laws and efforts to minimize disruption during the event.
Bexley Council reiterated their commitment to monitoring the situation and making adjustments if necessary. Dog owners are reminded to keep their pets on leads near the lake to protect nesting birds, and residents are being informed of measures through various channels, including social media and the council website.
The situation underscores the delicate balance between hosting community events and protecting local wildlife, highlighting the need for careful planning and consideration of environmental factors.
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