Island Barbecue Ban Plans Could Be Left Half-Cooked

Possible restrictions on using disposable barbecues and releasing sky lanterns and balloons on Isle of Wight Council-owned land may be shelved for the time being.

While a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) is legally available, the evidence, funding and enforcement arrangements required are not currently established, a new report says.

Simon Moon, County Hall’s strategic director of community services, has recommended the environment and community protection committee (ECPC) agree not to progress a PSPO at this time.

It comes after public consultation found widespread support for restrictions, particularly regarding sky lanterns and balloon releases.

ECPC councillors previously requested council officers carry out further work to look at whether more targeted and proportionate interventions could reduce wildfire risk and environmental harm while remaining within current resources.

Mr Moon’s report advises ECPC to approve a targeted wildfire prevention approach at council-owned sites presenting an increased wildfire risk from public use, including key parks and amenity beaches.

Proposed actions include enhanced public education and seasonal awareness campaigns, partnership working with Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, parish and town councils, landowners, retailers, campsites and tourism providers and targeted advisory signage.

The report also makes two other recommendations: that officers monitor the approach’s effectiveness over the 2027 wildfire season, reporting back to the committee within 12 months, and the committee keeps the potential for a site-specific PSPO under review.

Councillors are due to discuss Mr Moon’s paper next Thursday (September 24).