A FAMILY-run birds of prey centre that has operated in the Exmouth area for more than 18 years is seeking permission to relocate to a former agricultural site near Kenton after being served notice to leave its current premises.

Hawkridge Birds of Prey, currently based at World of Country Life near Haven’s Devon Cliffs holiday park, has submitted plans to transform two agricultural buildings at Ford Farm, on the outskirts of Kenton, into a new bird of prey centre.

The proposals seek to secure a long-term home for the business, which specialises in the care, training and display of birds of prey, while providing educational and recreational experiences focused on conservation, animal welfare and traditional falconry skills.

Under the plans, the existing farm buildings would be converted to accommodate the birds and the facilities needed for their daily care and management.

One barn would be used for displays, while the second would be converted into an aviary containing individual enclosures designed to meet the needs of different bird species.

The aviary building would also include dedicated areas for food preparation, weighing birds and storing transport cages.

The application also includes a modular office building, alterations to the existing barns, a car park and associated works.

The site would be accessed via an existing shared entrance from Mamhead Road.

Hawkridge intends to operate the centre as a pre-booked visitor attraction, offering flying demonstrations and opportunities for the public to learn more about birds of prey, conservation and responsible animal management.

Visitor numbers would be limited to a maximum of eight people per session, with activities running on weekdays and weekends throughout the year.

Experiences on offer would range from one-hour bird-handling sessions and two-hour flying experiences to five-hour junior falconer and hawk management courses.

The longer courses would be restricted to one session per day, while up to two daily sessions could be held for the shorter handling and flying experiences.

According to the proposals, the centre would be managed by two full-time members of staff, supported by six part-time volunteers.

The business says its appointment-only approach would allow visitor numbers, vehicle movements and daily activities to be carefully controlled.

Teignbridge Council are expected to make a decision on the application by December 15.

To view the plans in full, and to comment on the application, visit the council’s planning portal and enter ‘26/01595/FUL’ into the search-box.