Racing pigeon plan ruffling feathers of some Winnipeg residents

In this image made from video, a racing pigeon named Joe sits on a rooftop Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021, in Melbourne, Australia. (Channel 9 via AP)

A number of homeowners in the Sargent Park neighbourhood are appealing a decision to allow racing pigeons.

The city’s urban planning and design division approved a variance for the establishment of an aviary for “flighted” birds on Strathcona Street between Sargent and Ellice avenues.

A report says the homeowner would construct a 42-square-foot aviary in the backyard for the racing pigeons.

“The aviary would include racing pigeons, a type of sport bird specially bred and trained for racing and hobby use,” the report states.

The report says the variance was granted in part because the aviary is compatible with the area and would not create an adverse impact.

But an appeal has been lodged against the decision.

More than a dozen people, including the appellant, have concerns about the pigeons carrying diseases, making a mess with droppings, and causing damage.

The report says bylaw rules mandate the aviary be dry and well-ventilated, cleaned regularly, and disinfected twice annually, and there are restrictions on times when the pigeons can be released.

The appeal hearing is set for next Wednesday.