Disposable Barbecue And Sky Lantern Restrictions Still Being Considered By Isle Of Wight Council

The Isle of Wight Council has kept the door open to introducing restrictions on disposable barbecues, sky lanterns and balloon releases on land it owns.

Councillors have asked officers to carry out further work before any decision is made, with a detailed report due to be presented to the Environment and Community Protection Committee in September.

The report will examine the legal, financial and practical implications of introducing permanent or seasonal restrictions at high-risk locations across the Island.

It follows a public consultation in which the majority of respondents backed tougher measures.

Around 69% supported restrictions on disposable barbecues, while support was even higher for sky lanterns (88%), balloon releases (84%) and the use of Fixed Penalty Notices (82%) to enforce any new rules.

A report presented to councillors had recommended that no restrictions be introduced at this stage, citing limited funding, staffing and evidence to support enforcement.

However, members of the committee instead voted to seek more information before making a final decision.

The future report will include details of existing enforcement powers, opportunities to work alongside Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, as well as the potential role of education campaigns and additional signage.

Councillors have also requested a briefing from the fire service, including an estimate of the cost of responding to the recent wildfire at Headon Warren.

The approved motion says this information will help members assess whether preventative measures could save money by reducing the risk of future fires.

The committee also wants officers to explore working with Island retailers and campsites to encourage them to stop selling disposable barbecues and sky lanterns during periods of high wildfire risk.

In addition, the Island's two MPs will be asked to press the Government for a national ban on the sale of disposable sky lanterns and similar items.

Speaking during the meeting, Conservative councillor Ed Blake said he had campaigned against balloon releases for some time, both because of the threat they pose to wildlife and their impact on the marine environment.

He also said recent wildfires had highlighted the potential danger posed by disposable barbecues during prolonged periods of hot, dry weather.

Green Party representative Vix Lowthion pointed to recent wildfires on the Isle of Wight and across Europe, saying the issue required action rather than inaction.

She also praised Blackgang Chine for cancelling its planned fireworks display during the recent spell of high fire risk.

Liberal Democrat councillor Mark Rochell argued that introducing a ban could be more effective than simply issuing guidance, saying clear rules are often followed without the need for constant enforcement.