Moray Tories want funding fro Holyrood to tackle gulls
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
Moray's Tory councillors are calling on the Scottish Government to provide funding to specifically combat problems relating to seagulls.
There is no current duty on local authorities in Scotland to provide support or action for local residents in dealing with gulls.
However, Moray Council's SNP administration recently announced that it has asked council officers to investigate a range of options to help tackle seagulls.
The Tories are backing this, but are also calling for specific funding from Holyrood.
Councillor Tim Eagle, the leader of the Moray Conservative group, said: "We have seen a significant rise in complaints about seagulls this year.
"It sounds like most councillors now recognise something needs to be done.
"However, we really need the Scottish Government to see this as a priority as well.
"Moray Council already has limited funds.
"If the Scottish Government recognised this as an issue for areas like Moray that could have a huge impact on what we are able to do.
"The way to help is to ensure a debate in Edinburgh and give coastal authorities some financial support towards actions.
Cllr Eagle (Buckie) added: "We recognise seagulls as a part of our coastal communities but people shouldn't be left fearful of venturing outdoors or be kept awake long into the night."
Moray's Conservative have, in addition, launched a campaign with posters to encourage people to make sure that rubbish only goes in the bin.
Cllr Donald Gatt (Keith and Cullen) said: "Our campaign is about recognising there are lots of things we can do to help.
"We need direct action to help those who suffer from the noise or even worse the swooping of seagulls across Moray.
"But also we need those who drop litter and food waste to stop. There is no excuse for it.
"Let's all work together to get on top of this problem."
The Tories have put forward a motion which will go before the next full meeting of Moray Council on Wednesday, September 15.
It asks that the leader and chief executive of Moray Council write to the Scottish Government and local MSPs, highlighting the concerns of local people and calling for a new funding package to support coastal communities.
Related article: Moray council to look at further ways to tackle seagulls in Buckie and elsewhere
