Bournemouth Aviary has given pleasure to visitors and residents for around 90 years and now it has become even more of an attraction with the official opening of the new Cooper-Thompson Rescue Aviary in Bournemouth Lower Gardens next Tuesday 17 May.

Replacing the 1980s building that was previously in Pine Walk, it will provide a better sanctuary for around 200 tropical birds that have been re-homed.

The structure has been designed to create much more flight space for the birds and provide visitors with a 360-degree viewing space. It has been designed to higher welfare standards than the previous aviary and built to ensure exemplary bird care standards using durable low maintenance materials that have low ongoing maintenance costs.

Cllr Mark Anderson, portfolio holder for Environment and Place, BCP Council said: “This new aviary was very much needed, and I’m delighted that it provides more space for these precious tropical birds. They have been a much-loved feature in Bournemouth since the 1930s and I know a lot of residents and visitors to Bournemouth are looking forward to seeing them once again.

“My thanks go out to everyone who raised funds to help rebuild the aviary, as well as the volunteers who dedicate their time to ensuring each and every bird is well looked after.”

Derek Heritage, from Bournemouth Aviary, said: “It was over 20 years ago that plans were made to remove the old aviary for good. Now we are celebrating the working relationship between the council, The Parks Foundation and a group of volunteers and the on-going support from United Taxis who’ve helped us raise the much-needed funds to rebuild the aviary.

“This aviary will be enjoyed by locals and visitors for many years to come as a much-loved, free attraction for our town.”

Cathi Farrer, chief executive officer for The Parks Foundation said: “We’re so excited that the rescue aviary’s now opening, and the birds are moving back into their forever home.

“A massive thank you to the local residents who’ve supported the fundraising activity as well as Canford Environmental Ltd, The Cooper-Thompson Trust and BCP Council for their donations.

“You can still support the on-going costs to run the aviary, such as bird food, water, heating and cleaning materials needed by the volunteers each day by donating online at https://parksfoundation.org.uk/aviary/ or via a cash or contactless donation at the aviary.