PROBLEM pigeons are damaging one of York's most important buildings.
The roosting birds are landing on the Mansion House, leading to sky high cleaning bills and causing a hazard to passing residents and tourists.
Only days ago, a City of York councillor became a victim of falling bird droppings.
Today, Coun David Evans welcomed plans to deter the birds by placing spikes on the roof.
He said: "Having been hit by one of the pigeons as I climbed the steps into the Mansion House for this year's Remembrance Sunday procession, I would certainly welcome the installation of these spikes.
"And, on a more serious note, it is very important for us to protect the building from damage."
The council has had to apply for planning permission to put the spikes on the Mansion House because it is a listed building.
A council spokesman said: "The main problem is the mess that they are causing, which damages the Mansion House as well as causing high cleaning costs.
"The spikes cause no harm to the pigeons whatsoever. They are already used on a lot of buildings in York and are very effective."
He said the spikes would be barely noticeable to passers-by.
Updated: 10:42 Monday, November 19, 2001
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