LOCALS in Taunton are all aware that the Taunton Station rail bridge has a large population of birds living in its rafters.

This is despite previous work done to deter them and the installation of spikes and netting.

Network Rail has confirmed with the County Gazette that they are planning to begin trialling new techniques to remove the bird population.

A Network Rail spokesperson said: “We are aware of the issues caused by pigeons roosting under Kingston Road railway bridge and have carried out work to deter them, including the installation of spikes and netting.

“However, as pigeons are still gaining access and causing a concern for local residents and motorists we will be trialling new measures later this month with the aim of finding a long term solution."

They did not specify what these new measures will be however a long term solution would be an exciting prospect for many.

Somerset County Gazette: Birds continue to live under the rail bridge at Taunton Station.

It will not be the first time that Network Rail have sought a permanent solution.

Scores of pigeons camping under the bridge have been a problem for years and hundreds of thousands of pounds have been spent on failed projects to scare them birds.

Previous work that has failed includes:

  • a wailer machine emitting high-pitched blasts only served to frighten pedestrians and was largely ignored by the birds;
  • netting under the bridge soon broke, with the pigeons gradually returning within days;
  • and a £300,000 spruce up in 2011, when sharp metal spikes were installed to scare away the feathered ones, was also a failure.

Somerset County Gazette:

It truly doesn't provide people visiting Taunton for the first time with a top welcome.

People have to walk under the bridge to get into the town centre if they depart the train station from the North side.

They are greeted with large sections of the pavement coated in bird excrement and also an upsetting smell.

What do you think about it all? Should we allow the pigeons to stay or do you have an idea for getting rid of them?