Requirement:

We were recently contacted by one of our engineering clients to help them provide a solution to protect Cullercoats Footbridge from nesting birds, namely Pigeons.

Due to the overall large scale of the works, it was agreed that a site visit and walk around with the client would be beneficial as we were then able to agree on the methodology and duration of our site works relating to the Pigeon Netting installation.

The scope of works was to prevent the resident pigeons from fouling the platforms and walkways below – fresh guano creates a slippery, wet surface which presents as a H&S risk to anyone using it.

Solution:

It was decided that we would install our 50mm x 50mm Pigeon Netting to the two 40-meter Roof Canopies above Platforms 1 & 2. Our 2mm s/s Wire and Fixings with a max 500mm centres were used to secure and strengthen the Netting System.

Our Netting was installed to the full perimeter of the Canopies and into the brickwork of the Station to fully encase the canopy and deny the pigeons any further access.

Once the pigeons were deterred, this also removed the risk of Pigeon Guano being dropped onto the platforms below, thereby creating a safe walkway.

Drop-down hatches were temporarily installed to the Netting System to allow for any stubborn pigeons to fly out of the canopy once the installation was completed, these were closed off once we were confident that all remaining pigeons had left the installation area. 

Access Strategy:

Due to the height of the canopies, we utilised a total of four MEWPs (Mobile Elevated Work Platforms) to complete our netting installation, this allowed for prompt, safe access to the work areas, which at times remained operational.

Our installation Teams all carry their own IPAF Cards which means they are certified to safely operate MEWPs while undertaking their work.

Comments:

Jonathan Taylor, Senior Project Manager – Eco Environmental

“We were delighted that the works were completed on time with no H&S issues. Great work and team effort from everyone!”

Do you have a Pigeon or Gull problem that needs addressing before Nesting Season? If so, you can contact us on 01752 669 009 or our Live Chat to speak to one of our specialists.