Cockerels' crowing sparks complaints, says council

A mother known locally as the "chicken lady" has been threatened with legal action over her noisy cockerels.

Claire Tarr from High Wycombe was served a noise abatement notice by Buckinghamshire Council in December.

She said the situation had been especially upsetting for her eldest daughter, who relied on the cockerels for "emotional" support.

Buckinghamshire Council said: "We do understand that the birds are important to Ms Tarr and her family, but the impacts of the noise on the wider community also needs to be considered."

Claire had the idea of keeping cockerels and hens after visiting a farm, following her daughter's diagnosis of a blood clot on the brain.

She was told in January that she had breached the council notice, and was warned this could lead to more formal action.

Claire said she made adjustments by taking the three cockerels and one hen indoors at night.

No-one had knocked on her door to express concern about the noise, she pointed out, and she believed the complaints were not as bad as the council claimed.

Claire added: "People know me as the chicken lady. We have received a lot of positive support."

She cannot imagine her "life without them" - and said being forced to give up the birds would "mentally destroy" her.

Mark Winn, Buckinghamshire Council's cabinet member for housing and regulatory services, said: "Following a complaint within the community, we investigated concerns about noise from cockerels and found that it was causing a statutory noise nuisance."

The Conservative councillor added: "As long as the legal notice is complied with, no further action will be taken."

Red Kite Community Housing, which is a charity that provides social and affordable accommodation, said it was aware of "differing views within the community regarding roosters at our tenant's home".

"We have worked to support and guide Ms Tarr, exploring possible solutions and options during home visits," a spokesperson said.

"However, the council has advised us that concerns about noise have continued.

"The council will determine any action they consider appropriate."

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