Building work starts on new peregrine home above Market Harborough

Market Harborough’s peregrine falcons could soon have a new home at one of the town’s historic landmarks.

Work has begun to create a nesting platform within the tower of the Symington Building as part of wider restoration work at the listed building.

The project is being funded and installed by town-based building firm WW Browns, which is carrying out the restoration work.

Work has begun to create a nesting platform within the tower of the Symington Building

It’s hoped the sheltered location will provide a more suitable breeding site for a pair of peregrine falcons that have previously attempted to nest at the nearby St Dionysius Church.

Evidence suggests the lack of a suitable nesting platform has meant the birds have not had enough shelter and protection for their eggs.

Because the Symington Building is a listed building, permission was required to remove two louvres on the north side of the tower, allowing access to the nesting tray being installed internally.

Plans are also in place for a live camera feed, allowing people to follow the progress of the birds if they successfully take up residence.