Extended powers aim to curb heathland wildfires

Legal restrictions aimed at protecting heathland from wildfires are being proposed for more areas in Dorset.

A Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) has been in place in parts of Wareham Forest since a devastating fire in May 2020.

Dorset Council is now consulting on creating more controlled zones, where it will be forbidden to do anything that could potentially cause a fire.

Anyone caught lighting barbecues, lanterns or fireworks, or dropping cigarettes, will face a £100 fine.

Although the greatest risk of wildfires occurs in the summer months, crews have tackled two major incidents in recent days.

On 10 March, 9.6 hectares (24 acres) at Canford Heath was destroyed, and on 17 March, an area covering 600m by 200m (656 by 219 yards) was destroyed at RSPB Arne and Weymouth Wetlands Nature Reserve.

Both fires are thought to have been started deliberately.

Dorset Council has been working with Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, Dorset Police, Forestry England and National Landscapes on the new proposals.

In addition to the fines, enforcement officers will also have the power to confiscate items they believe could be used to light fires in the controlled zones.

The authority is also consulting on imposing PSPOs on beaches in Studland to tackle wild camping, which is says has led to property damage, rubbish accumulation, human waste, and destruction of natural habitats.

Health and housing councillor Gill Taylor said: "These orders are important for the protection of our natural landscapes, and for protecting the safety and amenity of our residents and visitors to our wonderful county.

"Similar orders for other areas have been in place for the past three years, helping to raise awareness of the issues.

Consultations on the Open Land PSPO and Beaches PSPO are open until 20 April.

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