A new group forms to create a gull management plan for Inverness after disputes threatened this year’s efforts.
The committee met due to gull concerns. People worried about the city centre gulls. Licenses for egg and nest removal failed last year because NatureScot had changed its advice.
Some councillors initially opposed funding removal, but they later changed their minds after a lunch break. Inverness BID offered to run the program entirely; otherwise, the Highland Council would be responsible.
Only two Green councillors maintained their refusal. SNP councillors accepted a Labour amendment.
Councillor Gregson finds the gull issue serious. He says an action plan seems essential now and believes the council depends on NatureScot.
NatureScot wants a long-term solution. They aim to balance needs and protect gulls. The focus will be on prevention, with licenses being a last resort for safety.
The licensing team supports councils facing gull problems and responds quickly to health and safety risks. In 2024, licenses took 12.5 days.
Inverness BID had a different experience last year. Changes in NatureScot’s guidance caused delays, so they removed far fewer eggs: only 175, compared to 1950 the year before.
NatureScot advised officials during that lunch break, discussing management plans for 2025. This concerns an interim approach, and they will work towards a better collaborative plan.
A new group forms: “city of Inverness gull management group.” NatureScot, the Highland Council, and Inverness BID will join to create a gull management plan that addresses community concerns while protecting the gull species too.
