Residents left in a flap over pigeon nets installed in front of their homes by Dudley Council

People living in Raven Court say they cannot understand why the council put up the nets, which cost £325, in front of the glass and are having no effect on where the troublesome birds are roosting.

Pigeons are leaving droppings in communal areas and the council’s efforts to keep the birds away have left tenants unimpressed.

Brierley Hill councillor Matt Cook, speaking on behalf of residents, said: “This is a clear example of the council not listening to the concerns of the people it serves.

“Instead of tackling the pigeon problem where it matters, they have installed netting in an ineffective and unnecessary location, leaving residents questioning the logic behind the decision.”

Councillor Ian Bevan, Dudley cabinet member for housing and communities, said: “We are aware of a long-standing issue with pigeons. We have carried out a deep clean of the balcony areas and worked hard to try and prevent pigeons coming in.

“Spikes were originally placed on the ledges to try and stop pigeons from roosting and when that did not work, the netting was put in place.

“Following the complaints, we have been out to have a look this week and identified a very small gap in the netting.

“We will be putting in additional spikes this week so pigeons cannot get through that gap and we are confident this will stop them from roosting on the ledges.

“Notwithstanding all that, the exposed walkways and landings mean we will never fully be able to keep the pigeons out if they are determined to get in.”

To make matters worse residents say the council is not clearing up the droppings, despite the introduction of a service charge to maintain communal spaces, and the mess is sticking to shoes and ending up in their homes.

Cllr Cook added: “People are having to walk through filth everyday just to get into their homes. Residents deserve better.

“They are paying for services that aren’t being delivered, while also dealing with an ongoing health hazard, they feel they are left to deal with the mess themselves.

“The council must step up, take responsibility, and put things right.”

Dudley Council charges tenants £2.75 a week to cover the cost of cleaning landings, corridors and stairs, and by a rubbish chute.

The charge also covers cleaning glass on stairways but not glass or walkways outside individual properties.

Cllr Bevan added: “An estate assistant attends the block daily and has been instructed to clean up any pigeon mess when they see it.”