One of Northampton’s best-loved landmarks is being given a new lease of life by staff and students from Northampton College, ensuring its inhabitants have a comfortable home for years to come.
The aviary in Abington Park is a popular destination with families across the town for generations but running repairs are needed to ensure the continued safety of the birds. West Northamptonshire Council has now enlisted the College’s construction team to give Bird Cage Walk a much-needed makeover.
Bricklaying apprentices are working alongside and full-time Level 2 bricklaying students to rebuild two old aviaries out of block work as the birds were eating their way through the old wooden ones. The new aviaries will be completed in the coming weeks, with Level 3 carpentry students installing a roof on them.
Mark Bradshaw, curriculum manager for construction, said: “It is a huge pleasure for me to be a part of this project as Abington Park is a place that’s incredibly close to my heart. My grandad Geoffrey Bailey worked there when he was very young with the park rangers and generations of my family have enjoyed the park, particularly the area around Bird Cage Walk.”
Work will continue next year on other enclosures in the aviary when painting and decorating students will be painting them in different colours. College staff involved in the project include Allan Smith, Peter Black, Josh Cass and Tim Chisholm.
Some of the materials have been donated by the College’s industry partner and apprentice employer, Euro Brickwork.
It is the latest community project to be taken on by the College’s construction, following involvement with schemes in St Katherine’s gardens and St Giles churchyard in the town centre, Delapre Abbey, the Old Black Lion and Northampton and Lamport Railway.
Park Ranger Tom Robinson said: "The students from Northampton College have begun construction on new brick sheds. These will provide numerous benefits for both birds and the public. These sturdy structures offer birds a safe, weather-resistant environment that shields them from harsh conditions like wind, rain, and extreme temperatures. The sheds also provide secure spaces for nesting and resting, reducing stress, and promoting healthier, more natural behaviours.
"For the public, these sheds enhance the aviary’s appeal by creating visually organised spaces, improving the overall aesthetic, and ensuring the birds’ well-being is prioritised. Additionally, the long-lasting nature of brick construction minimises maintenance costs and ensures the aviary remains an inviting and educational destination for years to come."
