Calls for greater safety measures at North Lincs nature reserve to prevent further tragedies

It follows the death of a 14 year old earlier this year

Author: Andy Marsh / Jamie Waller Local Democracy reportingPublished 12th Oct 2021
Last updated 12th Oct 2021

There are calls for more safety measures to be put in place at a North Lincolnshire nature reserve to prevent another tragic death.

14 year old Kai Gardner-Pugh lost his life in the water back in July at Ashby Ville after getting into difficulty.

Rules have now been brought which give police the power to force people to get out of the water via a public space protection order.

They can also be fined up to 1 thousand pounds

But during a meeting some Councillors called for a more pro active approach and greater warnings at the reserve.

The meeting heard that in parts the water reaches 30 feet deep.

They also discovered evidence that the easing of lockdown had led to a big increase in the numbers visiting Ashby Ville.

The leader of North Lincolnshire Council Rob Waltham said they have a responsibility to address some of the concerns.

He suggested the message about the dangers of swimming there needed to be pushed even more strongly.

He also thought a PSCO would be able to patrol the area on a regular basis.