Bird centre gets go-ahead after year-long planning rule dispute

CONTROVERSIAL plans to build a bird of prey centre on a protected North Yorkshire country estate containing some of the oldest trees in the region, have been given the go-ahead after more than a year of wrangling over planning rules.

Members of the North York Moors National Park Planning Authority (NYMNPA) yesterday gave unanimous backing to the proposals to build the second branch of the International Centre for Birds of Prey (ICBP) at Duncombe Park, near Helmsley.

The plans have been beset by delays after ecologists and officers on the NYMNPA expressed concern that the new centre, which is expected to attract up to 40,000 visitors a year, could have an impact on the Grade I listed estate, which dates back more than 300 years and is listed as a special site of scientific interest and historic parkland.

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But following yesterday’s decision, Charlie Heap, director of the new centre, told the Yorkshire Post he now hopes it will be open by July.

“We have been working on this for a long time and now hope this site will go on to become one of North Yorkshire’s most foremost tourist attractions,” he said.

“We certainly feel a responsibility for the area. That is something we were drawn to in the first place. We have never proposed to do anything with these trees – we will leave them just as they are.”

The new development, at the estate’s Parkland Centre, will be stocked with a host of birds including sea eagles, peregrine falcons, vultures and eagle owls.

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It is also hoped that the centre will put an end to North Yorkshire’s reputation as England’s worst blackspot for illegal killing of birds of prey.

Andy Wilson, chief executive of the NYMNPA, said: “Extra special consideration was needed because the area combines a Grade I park and a listed building, special site of scientific interest, national nature reserve, national park and collection of veteran trees.

“With agreements in place to monitor the development, members were happy to approve the application.

“The bird of prey centre will certainly give the area added appeal and the authority is enthusiastic about this exciting venture.

We look forward to help the centre flourish and to encourage visitors to appreciate the fantastic offering at Duncombe Park, Helmsley and the wider North York Moors area.”