Plans to open a falconry centre in Conwy

Jun 17 2010 by Mari Jones, North Wales Weekly News

Rob Davies and Mike Espley

A MAJOR new tourist attraction could be opened in Conwy by next spring.

Two businessmen hope to buy the site of the former Butterfly Jungle, in Bodlondeb, to develop it into a falconry centre.

The present building, which is dilapidated, would be demolished to make way for a log cabin style building.

One of the partners Rob Davies, who is a director of the Coastal Hawks project, commented: “We are waiting to hear in the next couple of weeks if we’ll be invited by Conwy County Council to tender for the site.

“I’ve spoken to many people on the council who seem keen on our ideas, as they think the attraction could be a perfect match for Conwy because of its medieval heritage.”

Rob says the centre would be an all year round, covered attraction, and he plans to employ four people full time.

“We’d employ young people who have been long term unemployed,” he said.

“The centre would be in a perfect spot as we could lead dusk walks through the nearby woods with the birds.

“Another plan is to take the birds hunting up Conwy mountain, as long as we had an agreement with local landowners.”

He says the attraction could also organise medieval banquets, picnics and lead walks.

“I’m also interested in leading ghost walks through Conwy with our white snowy owl, all in Medieval costume of course!.”

He says the centre would be keen to work with local schools, so children can learn all about the birds and surrounding nature.

His birds have already been a hit with locals and tourists in Conwy.

Conwy County Council employs him to get dressed in medieval garb, and walk around the town with the birds as they deter seagulls. The Coastal Hawks Project has ten birds of prey, including an European eagle owl, two Harris hawks and a peregrine-sake falcon

Rob said: “The response is phenomenal, as people queue to see the birds.

“They also ask questions about the town and I try and help as much as I can.”

Rob says it would cost around £250,000 to set up the attraction, and says the money could come from the Big Lottery Fund and various trusts.

“We are not looking for any funding from the council, apart from reduced rent for three to five years.

“My partner Mike Espley and I are confident we will be able to the necessary funds.

“If we get support from the Council, then hopefully we would be running by next spring.”

Town councillor Sara Allardice said: “If this happens then I think it would be great news for Conwy, as there aren’t that many covered attractions.

“There is so much potential, and the two partners seem very determined and on the ball.”

Cllr Goronwy Edwards, cabinet member for communities, said: “Interest in this site is very welcome.

“Any approaches are subject to considerations of cost, planning and viability, but it would be very pleasing to have an attraction that could add substantial value to Conwy’s tourism offer."