'It's like we're in a new home': Residents rejoice after bees removed from street

Yahoo

11 hours ago

RELIEVED residents were 'buzzing' after the removal of 22 beehives which left them feeling like they had "moved into a new home".
Millions of bees that were plaguing Corfe Avenue in Warndon for over a decade were removed after scared neighbours feared leaving their homes.
The hives had become an area of concern for nearby residents due to swarming, noise, pollen accumulation, and fears of being stung.
Scared neighbours are 'trapped in their homes' as a huge swarm of 'one million' bees took over their street in Worcester. (Image: SWNS) One resident, who wished not to be named over fears of retaliation from bee activist groups, said: "It really has felt like I have moved to a new home.
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"I now have bumblebees, butterflies and an abundance of small birds in my garden.
"There's no more noise, no more bees dying on the patio, and I can sit outside without fear.
"It has made a huge difference to my wellbeing.'
The 22 unmanaged beehives were removed. (Image: SWNS) According to residents, the issue was caused by a landlord allegedly keeping 22 hives in the garden of his rented property.
These were later voluntarily removed.
Councillor Sarah Murray for St Nicholas ward in Warndon said the decision to remove the hives took into consideration both environmental and community wellbeing.
'As someone with a long-standing commitment to environmental causes, I understand better than most how vital pollinators are to our ecosystems.
BALANCE: Councillor Sarah Murray for St Nicholas ward in Warndon. (Image: SWNS) "But, like any ecological intervention, location and management matter.
"When hives are left unmanaged in dense residential areas, they can create risks — not just for residents but for the bees themselves.
"Good environmentalism isn't about slogans. It's about thoughtful, proportionate decisions that protect people and nature in tandem.
A picture of a swarm flying around Corfe Avenue. (Image: SWNS) "That means working with residents — not ignoring them — to find the right solutions for the right places.'
She added how she is pleased residents can enjoy their gardens again, and the ecosystem in the area has been rebalanced.
Worcester City Council required no enforcement action after the beekeeper on Corfe Avenue agreed to remove the hives voluntarily before the council's abatement deadline.
Ongoing monitoring will ensure any future changes are managed appropriately.
A spokesperson for Worcester City Council said: 'After being alerted to the situation, Worcestershire Regulatory Services, acting on behalf of the City Council, quickly investigated the matter.
'This has resulted in the beehives being removed from the property, without any formal action being required.'