Sefton Council has shared its reasons for closing the Aviary at Botanic Gardens in Churchtown in Southport, saying they are “sensitively planning its closure over the next year”.
The Aviary opened just before the Second World War and has been an attraction which has welcomed families for the past 87 years.
The local authority says the facility is “ageing rapidly” and that al the birds and animals present will be rehomed.
Sefton Council said: “We know people will not be happy with this decision…
“We are closing the aviary at Botanic Gardens in Churchtown.
“Alongside the Botanic Gardens Community Association, we’ve been responsible for maintaining the aviary since 1974.
“It first opened in 1939 and it is ageing rapidly. We have carefully reviewed animal welfare guidance and the aviary is simply not keeping up with modern high quality animal welfare standards expected for our birds.
“As a result we have taken the decision to begin sensitively planning its closure over the next year.
“After carefully reviewing animal welfare guidance and considering the ageing infrastructure of the aviary, the Council decision was taken to begin planning its closure.
“Vitally every effort will be made to rehome the animals with organisations suitably skilled in animal welfare.
“Euthanasia will NOT be considered at any stage. If we’re finding it difficult to find a permanent new home, we’ll work with volunteer support in that interim period.”
Cllr Joanne Williams, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said:
“It is no longer possible for it to operate to the high welfare standards that are rightly expected of a modern site. For that reason, the decision has been taken to oversee the aviary’s closure.
“I’d like to personally thank everyone who has supported the aviary over the years, including the wonderful staff and volunteers who have cared for the animals on a daily basis.”
The team at the Aviary announced this morning that the aviary will be closing in March next year.
Writing on the Botanic Gardens Aviaries Southport Facebook page, Connor, Emily, Lucy and Luk wrote: “The aviary staff are not in support of this decision and will do our best to change the council’s plans.
“We’re hoping that we’ve messaged everyone who has recently donated an animal to us, but if we’ve missed you please pop us a message.
“We are not currently at the stage of rehoming our animals.
“We will be monitoring our Facebook so please send us a message if you have any concerns / queries.
“Our animals mean the absolute world to us, we’re truly heartbroken.
“Thank you for everyone’s continued support.”
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