Campaigners fighting to save the Botanic Gardens Aviary in Churchtown in Southport say they are “delighted” that plans to close the attraction have been removed , as they issued “heatleft thanks” to local people for their support.
Over 25,000 people have signed petitions calling for the Aviary to be saved after Sefton Council announced earlier this year that it wanted to close it.
In a statement this afternoon, the local authority shared that “the operational decision in question has been rescinded”.
A public consultation will now be held to seek people’s views and to determine a way forward.
Read More: Botanic Gardens Aviary SAVED as plans to shut historic family attraction are shelved
The Botanic Gardens Community Association (BGCA) and Save Our Aviary campaign said:
“We are delighted that Sefton Council have chosen to rescind their decision to close Botanic Gardens Aviary.
“This outcome follows months of public support, community engagement and constructive dialogue, demonstrating the depth of feeling residents, visitors and supporters have for the Aviary and its place within Botanic Gardens.
“We also warmly welcome Sefton Council’s announcement that a public consultation will be undertaken regarding the Aviary’s future.
“We look forward to meeting with Council representatives to understand the proposed format, scope and timescales of the consultation process and to ensure the voices of residents, volunteers, stakeholders and visitors are fully heard.
“The BGCA and Save Our Aviary campaign remain committed to working positively and collaboratively with Sefton Council to help secure a sustainable and successful future for the Aviary, while recognising its importance to the heritage, education and enjoyment of generations of park users.
“We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the Southport community, to Patrick Hurley MP, to those who signed our petitions, and to all those who have actively supported our campaign to Save Our Aviary.”
Make A Change For Botanic Founder David Rawsthorne said:
“This is absolutely amazing news! Public opinion has clearly finally been heard.
“I’m so happy for David and Ann Cobham and all the volunteers at the Botanic Gardens Community Association, and most importantly the birds and wildlife that now have a home and security still.”
The Botanic Gardens Aviary has welcomed generations of families since it opened in 1939.
In July, Sefton Council cited animal welfare, ageing infrastructure, financial sustainability and the suitability of the existing facility as reasons for closure of the Aviary.
They said: “Nobody is calling into question the care and kindness shown by staff and volunteers to these birds over the decades but the fact remains this facility is simply no longer in the best interests of the animals who are kept there.
“I have seen numerous comments from people telling us that this decision has nothing to do with animal welfare. Experts do not share that same view.”
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