Proposal for PSPO in Dorset after devastating heath fires

A proposal is being tabled for a public spaces protection order after a number of devastating heath fires across Dorset and the wider South.

The idea is intended to tackle issues of ASB coming from the blazes in grass, heathland and forest areas.

There is evidence that these blazes contribute to climate change and result in risk to life; damage to biodiversity, habitats and property; and loss of income from tourism and other land uses, and include provisions relating to placing, throwing or dropping items likely to cause a fire, lighting fires, barbeques, Chinese lanterns or fireworks, or using items which either cause a naked flame or pose a risk of fire.

Read more: Fire service plea to end 'mindless destruction' after recent blazes

The proposals outline: "There is evidence of fires being started by disposable BBQ’s and campfires on open land including heathland in the Dorset Council area.

"Following the disastrous fire at Wareham Forest in May 2020, which was most likely to have been started inadvertently, councillors asked officers to investigate ways in which the Council could help prevent wildfires in such terrain. A report was brought to the Council's Cabinet on 6 April 2021, outlining a number of measures that could be taken and included investigating the use of a PSPO to restrict activities likely to cause fires. This led to an Open Land PSPO being introduced for areas of Wareham Forest which is considered to have been successful in particular, by raising public awareness.

"Research has identified a small number of other councils who have introduced a similar provision following wildfires on open land and discussions with them have helped form an opinion the approach benefits public safety and protection of our natural environment. Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, Dorset Police, Forestry England, and National Landscapes are all supportive.

"National Landscapes has asked for a number of areas in their control to be covered by the provision. The evidence of issues at each location varies however, the similarity of terrain and level of public access are considered to be important factors when determining that the necessary criteria for a PSPO are met.

"The draft Order covers areas of forest and heathland in the Parishes of Winterbourne Steepleton, Portesham, Stinsford, Puddletown, Moreton, Winfrith Newburgh, Affpuddle, Bere Regis, Wool, East Stoke, Wareham St Martin, Arne, East Holme, Steeple, Corfe, Studland, Corfe Mullen, Lytchett Minster and Upton, Ferndown, Holt, West Moors, St Leonards and St Ives, Verwood and Alderholt.

"The purpose of this consultation is for you to tell us what you think about our Dorset Open Land (Number 2) Anti-social Behaviour Related Public Spaces Protection Order 2025."

You can read more about the consultation on the Dorset Council website.

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