A school in Aberdeen that was due to be demolished got a stay of execution yesterday after baby gulls were found nesting on its roof.

The decision was taken to halt work scheduled to be completed by October after animal welfare groups voiced concerns about the legally protected seabirds who had made Kincorth Academy’s former science building their home.

Kincorth Academy, which opened in 1971, closed last July with pupils now being sent to the £47 million Lochside Academy.

Keith Marley, a trustee of the New Arc animal rescue centre outside Ellon, said the council should have checked whether the birds were on the site prior to commencing the demolition scheme – and has reported the matter to the police.

He said: “They should have ensured the gulls were removed before the work.

“Going in and mowing down the building with chicks inside isn’t acceptable. It’s not humane in any way, shape or form.”

A police spokeswoman said officers would carry out investigations “to see if any crime has been committed”.

The decision to step in a project the birds was welcomed by TV wildlife expert Chris Packham yesterday.

The famed naturalist and broadcaster heard of the announcement and expressed delight at the “good news” online.

He told his followers on Twitter that Humane Wildlife Solutions, the council and contractors were now “working together to make sure the chicks are safe”.

 An Aberdeen City Council spokeswoman said: “Work will resume when we are confident there is no risk of disturbing nests.”

“Mowing down the building with chicks inside isn’t acceptable”