Gloucester City Council has firmly denied rumours suggesting plans to cull the herd of cattle grazing on Robinswood Hill and Alney Island. Concerns had surfaced amid the council’s consideration to transfer management of these two nature reserves to Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust as part of its financial recovery strategy.
The council is reviewing options to either sell or offload some of its assets, including around 270 properties and potentially these nature sites. This financial reorganization led to fears that the cattle, which help maintain the ecosystem through conservation grazing, might be culled to cut costs.
However, Conservative group leader Stephanie Chambers, representing Quedgeley Fieldcourt, quickly addressed the speculation after receiving concerns from local stakeholders. She confirmed that no information has been provided to suggest a cull is planned. Chambers emphasized that she and her party strongly oppose any culling motivated by financial reasons, underscoring the cattle’s valuable role in preserving the green spaces, which are cherished by the community.
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“The cattle contribute to the conservation grazing that keeps Robinswood Hill thriving. Any culling could only be considered in exceptional circumstances where serious animal health risks exist and no alternatives are viable—not as a cost-saving measure,” Chambers stated.
Similarly, Liberal Democrat Environment Cabinet Member Sebastian Field reiterated that the culling rumours are unfounded. “There is no plan to cull the herd on Robinswood Hill. These heritage cattle are vital to ecosystem management, and despite reviewing estate plans, their welfare remains a priority,” he assured.
When asked if this stance also covers the cattle on Alney Island, a council spokesperson confirmed that the same applies to all cattle owned by the council. They assured that none of the cattle will be culled or disposed of within the next 12 months.
Gloucester City Council’s clear message aims to reassure residents and stakeholders that their beloved cattle remain safe, continuing to play an important role in maintaining the city’s natural heritage.