RBWM seeks views on catapult crackdown after swan killings

RBWM wants residents to feedback on new proposals that would grant the authorities greater powers to challenge people carrying catapults.

This comes amid a sharp rise in attacks on swans and other wildlife – a series of incidents in which swans and other birds have been shot around Windsor and beyond.

The spate of attacks has prompted growing concern from Thames Valley Police, local MPs and rescue charities.

In one of the most high-profile cases, a Windsor swan affectionately known as Pete was killed on the Thames in October – an attack investigated by police.

Swan Support, based in Bray, and Swan Lifeline, based in Eton, have both reported a surge in injuries linked to catapults, with vet bills soaring and birds suffering severe, sometimes fatal wounds.

Both organisations have warned that many of the attackers are children, and that incidents are now happening in broad daylight.

Supporters of tougher controls, including Windsor MP Jack Rankin and Swan Support founder Wendy Hermon, have urged the council to act quickly.

Mr Rankin has accused the authority of ‘failing our swans’, while Swan Support says attacks are now a borough-wide issue requiring urgent intervention.

Against this backdrop, the Royal Borough is consulting on a new Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) that would restrict the carrying of catapults or slingshots with stones, pellets or ball bearings.

The order specifies that the restriction is in place ‘where there is an intention to harm people, property or wildlife’ – as there are legitimate and legal reasons to carry one.

If introduced, the order would give police and community wardens the ability to challenge, fine and confiscate catapults from anyone suspected of misuse.

This would apply to Eton & Castle (including central Windsor), Old Windsor, and Datchet, Horton and Wraysbury.

Launching the consultation, Cllr Richard Coe, cabinet member for household & regulatory services, said:

“We want everyone to be able to enjoy our borough’s parks and public spaces safely and are taking residents’ reports around catapulting seriously.

“This measure would give police and wardens the ability to act quickly where catapults are being misused – protecting people, property and wildlife.”

The consultation runs until Thursday, January 8, and asks residents whether they support the proposal – and to share their broader views on anti-social behaviour in their area.

More information is available on RBWM Together, with printed copies of the consultation documents available at all libraries.