A BIRD sanctuary is set to lose its second home in less than 12 months after being told to vacate their current premises at a Warrington based garden centre by April 1st.
The not-for-profit sanctuary is now urgently seeking new homes for their various birds, including birds of prey.
The request to vacate the premises at White Moss Garden Centre at Penketh, follows a change in management and a planning application to build a cafe and seating area on the ‘Meadow’ which the Bird sanctuary had been hoping to use.
Wild Wings Director Carole Rose said: “We have been refused an extension to give us time to relocate the birds as we currently have nowhere to move them to, although we are in talks with friends in the Falconry World, in relation to temporary accommodation once again.
“Our request, even with an offer of rent in advance, was instantly refused and we have been informed that if we have not removed the birds and all of our structures they will take vacant possession on Saturday 2nd April. It is Physically impossible to remove the birds and all the structures with what was only three weeks notice.
“The birds welfare is paramount and we need somewhere safe that we can house them and continue to care for them. Another Centre to open for the public is not a priority. We need at least 1/2 acre of safe secure land with power and water that we can access 24/7.”
Carole added: “We have invested over £30,000 here, doing all the works ourselves, which included monies donated by the public, most of which will be lost.
White Moss Garden Centre Posted the following statement on their Facebook page. “It is with great regret that we announce Wild Wings Birds of Prey will not be able to open at White Moss Nursery & Garden Centre.
“After ten months of negotiations, the ever-changing (increasing) requirements for space from the original lease offered to Wild Wings meant that White Moss do not have the capacity to meet the needs of the birds.
“This difficult decision has been taken after consultation with the Local Authority, DEFRA and RSPB. The utmost priority has been given to the bird’s health and wellbeing. The surprising statement issued by Wild Wings does not accurately portray the events.
“It has since come to our attention that previous landlords of Wild Wings faced exactly the same dilemma as White Moss and were forced to take similar action due to unreasonable demands from them.
“It would not be appropriate or beneficial to either party to conduct this matter publicly.
“We would like to reiterate that we are being guided by DEFRA, RSPB and Warrington Borough Council on how the birds can be moved without causing any undue stress or harm to them.
“We sincerely hope that Wild Wings find the perfect home for these wonderful creatures, a home that is more appropriate to their specific needs and which allows them to flourish and settle.
“We wish them every success for the future.
Meanwhile local businessman Paul Taylor, who had previously attempted to house the sanctuary on land adjoining his business park near Culcheth, before running into planning issues, said: “I’m shocked and appalled at the run of bad luck Wild Wings have had. Just when we thought they’d found somewhere to get settled and look what happens.
“We’re in talks with them to see if we can help them again. Hopefully with a proper lease this time in a place they can call a home for the future.
“We still think they would be a fantastic asset for the area and we hope to work with the parish council and other organisations to see if we can support them with a long term home, and hopefully something on a temporary basis in the meantime to secure the safety of their birds.”
