🌿🕊️ We, the undersigned members of the local community, visitors to Clissold Park and creature lovers call on Hackney Council to urgently review and improve the conditions of the aviary at Clissold Park in the best interests of animal welfare, public education and the values of our community.

The aviary is currently a barren and inhospitable environment for the birds housed within it. The lack of planting, enrichment, shelter and natural structures results in a bleak space that does not meet modern expectations of animal welfare or reflect the care and respect that Clissold Park otherwise embodies. The birds’ proximity to open skies and freedom only heightens the distressing contrast of their surroundings.

Since January 2024, repeated attempts have been made by a local resident to work constructively with the council, including offering:

Expert-informed suggestions for improving the aviary environment
A fully community-led improvement project
Donated, safe materials sourced from professional tree surgeons
Skilled volunteer labour
Fundraising for appropriate planting
All of this was proposed at no cost to the council.

Despite this, the response has been that there is insufficient capacity to explore practical improvements at this time. While a small number of perches have since been added to the fencing, these minimal changes do not address the fundamental issues and the aviary remains unfit for purpose.

Clissold Park is cherished by bird lovers, animal lovers, families, dog walkers, runners, visitors of all ages. The aviary should be a place of learning, care and quiet joy, not one of neglect or sadness.

We therefore respectfully ask Hackney Council to:

Acknowledge the current inadequacy of the aviary environment
Engage meaningfully with the community to allow welfare-led improvements
Permit a volunteer-led project to introduce natural planting, enrichment and a central perch structure
Commit to ensuring the aviary meets appropriate animal welfare standards

If meaningful improvements cannot be made, we ask the council to reconsider whether keeping birds in this setting is appropriate.

This petition is rooted in care, collaboration and a shared desire to improve the lives of the birds who call Clissold Park home.

✍️ Please add your name to show your support.