Fylde Council introduces Public Space Protection Order to prohibit BBQ’s and open fires
Further to a recent consultation on Public Spaces Protection Orders for BBQ’s and open fires, a number of sealed orders will come into force with effect from 1st July 2019 for a period of 3 years.
The orders will prohibit BBQ’s and outdoor cooking on a number of the Borough’s open spaces; a full list of which can be found on the website www.fylde.gov.uk/bbqs
At a meeting of the Tourism and Leisure Committee on 14th March 2019 councillors agreed to introduce a PSPO to prohibit BBQ’s and outdoor cooking following public consultation that was undertaken. This was in response to receiving a number of complaints over the last year or so about damage caused to park furniture and grassed areas as a result of barbeques and outdoor cooking, with the Fire Brigade having to attend a large fire on Lytham Green in summer 2018 which was caused by a disposable BBQ.
Damage has also been caused in and around Fairhaven Lake, and the Fylde Sand Dunes Local Nature Reserve/ Site of Special Scientific Interest. The complaints also included nuisance, noise, disturbance and safety risks associated with such activities, as well as an increase in the amount of litter that is left behind.
The Council hopes that by prohibiting BBQ’s this will help to further protect the Borough’s designated nature reserves, ecological sites and the associated wildlife.
Chair of the Tourism and Leisure Committee Councillor Cheryl Little said: “We want residents and visitors to use parks, open spaces and beaches responsibly and safely. The council has considered this matter carefully taking into account all views submitted and on balance has decided to introduce this restriction. We hope that visitors and residents will understand why we have had to take this action, and will enjoy a simple picnic whilst visiting.”
Failure to comply with the orders will result in a Fixed Penalty Notice of £50 or you could be prosecuted in the magistrates’ court for a criminal offence and be fined up to £1,000. A security contractor will be on patrol within these areas to ensure compliance.
ENDS
For more information regarding this press release please contact Erin Coar PR and Communications Officer at erin.coar@fylde.gov.uk or call 01253 658499.
