Concept plans underway for Cornwall Park aviary upgrade
An upgrade of the Cornwall Park aviary will see it have enhanced enclosures three times its current size, a draft concept plan has revealed.
Hastings District Council has worked with designers Createus Group and the SPCA on the concept plan that envisages the enclosure being increased to about three times its current size, and 19m long to give the parrots more flight room.
As well as being more open, the plan includes water features, more planting and natural perches, ropes and other play activities within the enclosure, along with housing that would be warm and ventilated in winter.
This would be complemented by landscaping outside the cages to make the whole area more appealing for the public, and secure for the birds.
In March 2019, HDC consulted with the community about the future of the aviary as part of the Cornwall Park Reserve Management Plan (RMP), and got a strong response that people wanted it retained, but with enlarged and enhanced cages for the birds.
With the health and welfare of the birds being the prime consideration, council agreed to enlarge and improve the cages, with the two large parrots’ cages being the first priority.
A Friends of Cornwall spokesperson said the aviary upgrade was one of the initiatives that the group supported when giving feedback on the proposed RMP.
“Along with the other actions identified in that plan that are now being implemented, it’s great to see work underway on the aviary now as well.”
SPCA animal welfare inspector Pip Lamb said the organisation was working closely with Hastings District Council on the concept plans.
“What’s proposed will provide a significantly enhanced enclosure that will better meet the needs of the large birds in particular.”
In preparation for these upgrades the two large parrots, a Corella called Stevie Nicks and a Cockatoo called Mate, have been temporarily re-homed.
"Council appreciates the assistance of the SPCA in finding suitable accommodation for the birds, while their new home is designed and built," a spokeswoman said.
Once the concept plan has been approved and the plans completed, it’s anticipated physical works could begin in the New Year.
