Sainsbury’s is at the center of a heated animal welfare debate following reports of a planned pigeon cull at Green Park Station in Bath, a historic landmark now operating as a vibrant community space with cafes, restaurants, and markets.
The old railway station, owned by Sainsbury’s and situated adjacent to its Bath superstore, has become home to a thriving pigeon population sheltering above the market hall. Recently, animal rights advocates raised the alarm about an alleged cull intended to control the birds, sparking significant public backlash.
Protect The Wild, an animal welfare group, launched a petition titled “Stop the Pigeon Cull,” which has garnered nearly 7,000 signatures. Activists gathered at the station to protest, successfully halting the immediate cull. Despite this, concerns remain about the future safety of the pigeons.
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Sainsbury’s responded by clarifying that no culling is planned. A company spokesperson explained that the birds are being temporarily removed to enable essential netting repairs and assured the public that the protection and well-being of the pigeons remain a priority. “We take animal welfare seriously and are focused on finding a safe way to relocate the birds while carrying out these necessary repairs,” they said.
The RSPCA advises on bird management that non-lethal solutions should always be prioritized. According to the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, pigeons can only be culled legally under specific licences issued by Natural England or Natural Resources Wales, underscoring the importance of humane treatment.
Criticism has also been directed at the netting itself. Campaigners argue that damaged or poorly maintained netting poses a lethal risk to birds, describing its presence as “negligent” and responsible for avoidable suffering.
Bath Swan Rescue expressed solidarity with the protest efforts, urging the public to protect the pigeons. Their team successfully rescued a grounded juvenile pigeon that was found injured during the protest night. Amy Lovell, the team lead, noted that although the cull was called off, fears persist it might only be postponed.
The pest control company involved, identified as Rentokil, heightened fears among advocates about potential lethal measures. Protect The Wild vows to maintain pressure on Sainsbury’s until it receives a full public assurance that no culling will take place now or in the future.
Spokesperson Charlotte Smith emphasized the need for transparency: “Until there is clear public confirmation that the cull is completely cancelled and details of its organization are disclosed, uncertainty remains. We are committed to ensuring that humane alternatives are pursued.”