Sunderland City Council places fence around swans in Roker Park after their nesting was disturbed

Sunderland City Council have revealed that a fence has had to be placed around swans in Roker Park who moved as a result of their usual nesting area being disturbed.

Now the swans have chosen a new location of the edge of the pond, which is very close the busy public footpath.

The local authority held discussions with the RSPCA and other partners to determine the best outcome, with the fence being placed to provide a safe space between the swans and the general public.

Council bosses have issued a reminder that the swans must be left alone at all times and dogs should be kept on a lead away from the wildlife.

A spokesperson for Sunderland City Council said: “Unfortunately, the local swans in Roker Park have been disturbed in their usual nesting area and have moved as a result.

“The swans have now chosen a new location at the edge of the pond which is very close to a busy public footpath.

“Following discussions with the RSPCA and other partners, Sunderland City Council have chosen to provide a safe space between the swans and the general public in this busy area of the park.

"Sunderland City Council would remind the public that the swans are wild animals and must be left alone at all times, and particularly during the nesting season.

"We would also request that dog owners keep their dogs on leads at all time and keep them well away from the wildlife."

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