Councils hoping to ban lanterns, BBQs and campfires on Darwen Moor
It's after wildfires in 2020 which devastated the moorland
Last updated 9th Jun 2024
Action is to be taken to prevent any repeat of the May 2020 wildfire which devastated the moorland above Darwen.
Three councils are seeking to bring in a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) banning activities on the open land including lighting barbeques, campfires or camping stoves; lighting fireworks or setting off night sky paper lanterns.
The move follows the devastation caused on Darwen Moor in May 2020 when fire crews spent a week putting out wildfire spread over three miles caused by a disposable barbeque.
More than 300 breeding birds were killed, endangered species were destroyed and the natural habitats for other species were ruined.
Blackburn with Darwen Council has been joined by its counterparts for Bolton and Chorley in seeking the order to stop individuals or groups from committing anti-social behaviour on the West Pennine Moors.
Breaching the proposed PSPO would be a criminal offence with a fine of up to £1,000.
Blackburn with Darwen Council’s environment boss Cllr Jim Smith said: “A wildfire is an uncontrolled, destructive fire that can quickly spread over moorland, destroying everything in its path.
“The effects can be devastating and can spiral out of control.
“Whilst some wildfires ignite naturally, by sun during a dry spell or a lightning strike, most are almost invariably caused by human action.
“The impact of a wildfire is long lasting and the moorland can take decades to recover.
“Moorland fires can easily develop into major incidents, which puts a huge strain on emergency services.
“They have a huge financial cost, as well as causing damage to wildlife, livestock, natural habitats, farmland and property.
“They can leave permanent scars on our beautiful landscape, and cause air and water pollution.”
The PSPO would last for three years initially.
The prohibitions will be the same across all three councils to avoid confusion.
West Pennine ward Conservative Cllr Jean Rigby said: “This is a brilliant move.
“I absolutely support it.
“It is a good and wise step to take.
In 2018 the Winter Hill wildfire took 41 days to bring under control with 100 soldiers and emergency services to put out the fire caused by anti-social behaviour.
The PSPO would not apply to land or premises within the restricted area where there is no implied public access or right of way. It would not apply to a resident having a barbeque in their own garden.
Blackburn with Darwen Council is now seeking the views of residents, businesses and agencies in relation to the proposed PSPO conditions, and area that it would cover.
The consultation will run until February 15.