Plans to open ‘parrot experience’ in Blackpool

Plans have been put forward to open a ‘Parrot Experience’ at premises in Blackpool town centre.

The project would see the creation of a  larger space, with artificial ‘jungle’ foliage, where the parrots would freely fly around, and smaller areas where customers would be able to “interact with the birds individually”.

A planning application has been lodged with Blackpool Council for change of use of ground floor premises as a ‘Parrot Experience’ in premises a 64-66 Talbot Road.

The proposals have been submitted on behalf of Mr Przemyslaw Antonowicz by  Lee Fenton Planning Services, who submitted a Planning and Heritage Statement.

It said: “The existing use seems to be that of an A3 restaurant but has more recently been used as an ice cream shop.

“The proposed use will be as a ‘parrot experience’, where visitors to the resort can book a session to interact with free-roaming parrots and other exotic birds.

“This application seeks planning permission for the change of use of the existing ground floor commercial premises to form a unique ‘parrot experience’, which is considered a Sui Generis use.

“The building would be divided internally to form a modest reception area at the front of the building. This will provide space for visitors to enter with a comfortable amount of circulation space.

“Here, patrons would pay their fee and sign the necessary waivers before entering the main bird area.

The main bird area will be separated from the reception by a rope netting wall, in keeping with the jungle / wildlife theme of the attraction whilst still letting natural light through from the front windows.

“Within the bird area, the parrots will be flying free, with branches, artificial foliage and other purpose-built jungle themed items around the edges of the room.

“Key feature items (such as artificial trees) will help subdivide the large space to create smaller areas for visitors to interact with the birds individually.

“To the rear of the main bird space will be two doors – one for staff and one for patrons.

Patrons will have access to a rest area / coat room and WC. Staff have access to the prep area;and rear access door. There is also a separate laundry / wash room.”

The applicant will seek to address potential noise issues by involving less ‘vocal’ species such as Macaws, which produce a maximum noise level of 70-80 dB.

It is also proposed that the existing ceiling (which will already contain an element of sound proofing) is over boarded with 15mm acoustic plasterboard.

Below this, 100mm of rigid board Kingspan insulation will be installed. Below this, a second layer of acoustic plasterboard will be installed. The ceiling will then be skimmed and painted.