People were feeding scraps of food to birds that became trapped under a motorway bridge in Ellesmere Port.
Following complaints of "excessive pigeon excrement", National Highways carried out structural work on the M53 in a bid to "block pigeons" from the under space. This meant metal sheets were erected on the bridge to stop more birds from nesting there.
But over the weekend, it was discovered some pigeons were trapped in the bridge, prompting urgent action to be taken, Cheshire Live reports. Some locals were "posting food through the gaps" as they heard the trapped birds unable to get out, said campaigner Tanuee Holway who has been providing regular updates on Facebook.
READ MORE: Woman's 'stomach sank' at diagnosis after unexpected weight loss
Ellesmere Port and Neston MP Justin Madders said he was "absolutely appalled" for the "scant disregard for animal welfare". In a statement he added: "I have received regular complaints about bird droppings (from the motorway bridge) and following contact with the Highways Agency, they agreed to look into what measures could be adopted to stop them.
"Needless to say I am absolutely appalled that what transpired appeared to have scant regard for animal welfare which was compounded by what I consider to be deliberate misinformation from the Highways Agency about what had actually happened.
"I am pleased to say that some birds were eventually rescued, and I am now working with the RSPCA to see what more can be done to ensure there is no repeat of the appalling attitude to animal welfare that was on display here. Sections of the sheeting have been removed to allow birds to escape but we think there is still a section in the middle where they can’t get out which the fire brigade can’t remove, so we are waiting for the highways agency to look at that."
Jenny Mason, of Safe Haven Wild Birds Animal Sanctuary, said people have been "down there every day and night hearing the birds". Jenny, who is looking after a number of baby pigeons which she claims were found at the scene in a plastic bag, added: "Obviously it was a weekend we've really struggled and being passed from pillar to post by the Highways.
"Several other people - the RSPCA, the police and fire service - have been involved and all are aware and can see that there are birds trapped behind these metal sheets."
An RSPCA spokesperson confirmed they were aware of the situation and the fire service were also called to assist.
Susan Walsh, a National Highways Road Team Manager (North West), said: "We are aware of the ongoing situation with the issue of excessive pigeon excrement and we are also keen to see an end to this problem. We’ve tried a number of things to solve the problem, such as removing existing birds by hand and fitting metal mesh to prevent further roosting under the bridge.
"The safety of the bridge structure and the drivers that use it every day is our top priority, while also protecting wildlife. We are happy to work with local authorities in the area to rectify the situation."
National Highways confirmed to CheshireLive that they plan to sent a team to the area to re-seal the under space.
READ NEXT:
TUI cancels more holidays while UK Foreign Office advice changes
Ten unlikely foods that may be behind your bloated stomach
Struggling single mum breaks down after millionaire offers her a lifeline
Gogglebox fans thrilled as Jenny makes confession about Lee
Coronation Street's Bernie Winter star has a famous wife soap fans may recognise
