The town where feeding birds could cost you £1,000

People in Worthing, West Sussex, could soon be fined up to £1,000 for feeding wildlife in the town centre.

Worthing Borough Council said there were "increasing concerns" about the impacts of "excessive and unregulated" feeding of wild animals, like pigeons and seagulls.

It said a proposed ban, using a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), would help combat public health risks from animal droppings, scavenging, damage to public spaces and local businesses, and pests like mice and insects.

Residents, businesses and visitors are being encouraged to share their views in a public consultation, open until 25 March.

Worthing resident Lisa Crowther said she had been swooped by a seagull when she sat down on a bench with food from a local bakery.

"Seagulls have become so vicious now. They expect food to be given to them that they are attacking us," she said.

Richard Bernard acknowledged birds were "a bit of a nuisance" but disagreed about the fines.

"Life's too short to be fining people for feeding them," he said.

"I think Worthing Borough Council should focus more on repairing potholes and the roads."

Neill Morton, who has lived in Worthing for four years, said it may help prevent the issue getting worse.

"The seagulls can be a bit of a problem, but it hasn't reached the same level as Brighton," he added.

Meanwhile, fellow resident Tony Boyling said he had questioned a man feeding pigeons at a bus stop.

"It brings in a lot of birds we don't need to the area," he said.

A PSPO would enable officers to issue fixed penalty notices of £100, or up £1000 through the courts.

Councillor Rosey Whorlow, Worthing's cabinet member for community safety, said: "Our priority is to ensure Worthing remains a clean, safe and welcoming town centre for everyone, while also protecting the long-term wellbeing of local wildlife.

"We encourage people to take part and have their say before any decision is made."

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