PROPOSED measures to prevent pigeons pooing in Chester historic Water Tower in Boughton have been given the green light.

Last month we reported that construction and property consultants Summers-Inman, on behalf of Severn Trent Water, had submitted a listed building consent application to place anti-bird netting on gaps where pigeons have been getting into the 19th century, Grade II-listed water tower, at the Boughton Water Treatment Works.

Those plans have now been approved by Cheshire West and Chester Council.

In a design and access statement, Summers-Inman said that an inspection was carried out at the site and found pigeons were entering the building through several locations.

As a result "excrement is present on the inside, causing unhealthy and unpleasant conditions for staff".

Two letters of objection were received by the council in response to application which raised concerns that netting can "cause birds to become ensnared and die", while adding that the measures should comply with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

In a report recommending approval, council case officer Gail Nickson said: "This application is for listed building consent as planning permission is not required for the installation of netting.

"As such, this application can only look at the impacts of the netting on the listed building to which it is being applied.

"The netting will not be highly visible from the exterior of the building and the conservation officer has stated no objection to it. As such, it is considered that the proposals have special regard to the desirability of preserving the building or its setting or any features of special architectural or historic interest which it possesses.

"It is noted that some representations have been received which state concern about animal welfare and the impact of the netting on birds. These concerns are noted and taken very seriously.

"The Cheshire Rural and Wildlife Crime Team are aware of the application as is the council's ecology team and it is suggested that an informative is placed upon this notice of listed building consent to say that whilst they do not need planning permission for the proposed works that the duties under the Wildlife and Countryside Act would still apply and this would be the responsibility of the applicant to ensure adherence to."