Chinese lanterns and barbecues could be banned in parks
FIXED PENALTY £100 FINES COULD BE INTRODUCED
FIXED penalty £100 fines for starting fires in parks could be introduced in Grimsby and Cleethorpes.
The public has been invited to have their say on a banning order covering North East Lincolnshire’s parks, beaches, the seafront and other council-owned land.
Views on the banning of the release of Chinese lanterns, the starting of fires and barbecues, and fishing limits are sought in the online consultation. There has been mixed reaction from opposition party councillors as to the move, with Labour questioning if it is “a genuine consultation”.
Under the plans, the council would create a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO). This bans people from doing certain things in an area, or requires restrictions on certain activities.
A PSPO can last three years, but this can be extended if needs be. A fixed penalty notice of £100 is given to people who ignore PSPO bans. If an individual unsuccessfully disputes the fine or fails to pay it in time, in North East Lincolnshire they could be fined up to £1,000 at magistrates’ court.
Cllr Ron Shepherd, portfolio holder for safer and stronger communities, said: “We’re fortunate to have so many parks and open spaces to visit and enjoy in North East Lincolnshire. In Cleethorpes, we also have an internationally important habitat for wildlife and we need to look after it. These places are precious, and most people respect them, but some activities can harm the environment and wildlife or put people at risk.”
PSPOs are already in place to tackle dog fouling, antisocial behaviour and cycling in pedestrian zones.
Cllr Shepherd continued: “With this new proposal, we want to introduce new measures to curtail activities that put others at risk or could damage the environment we look after. Please take the time to give us your views during the public consultation, the survey only takes a few minutes.”
Cllr Matthew Patrick, leader of the Labour group, found the format of the online consultation “a bit concerning” and even expressed scepticism about it. “I’m not actually convinced this is a genuine consultation,” he said. “It’s really looking for an endorsement of council policy rather than through listening to the public and their needs.” He also told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS): “It’s the first we’ve heard about it because it’s not actually gone through the scrutiny process, which is disappointing that they haven’t actually spoken to members before this went out.
“Having had a chance to look at the consultation online, I certainly do welcome enforcement where it’s needed.” However, Cllr Patrick suggested residents may lack faith in the council’s enforcement abilities when observing the problem of fly-tipping currently. On the PSPO online consultation, he explained his concern with the format: “If you disagree or are unsure about what the council are putting forward, you’re actually challenged in the consultation to explain why. Whereas, if you agree to any of its proposals, you just wade through by clicking ‘Yes’.” Liberal Democrat Cllr Steve Beasant said he “really welcomed” the move. “As far as I’m concerned, it’s a good move forward,” said Cllr Beasant, before adding: “It sends out a powerful message that the council is listening to residents.” He in particular highlighted “irresponsible” litter bin fires in Grant Thorold Park in the run-up to Bonfire Night. “Parks are for places where people should go into to enjoy, not having to put up with disruption of other people.” Questiones are asked about proposed bans or restrictions in council land on:
■ Fire and barbecues
■ Illegal encampments and overnight camping and caravanning
■ Paragliders and jet skiers
■ Use of metal detectors
■ Releasing of Chinese lantern type devices
■ Fishing and bait digging restrictions proposed
On fishing, it is proposed only anglers with both a valid ticket bought from the council website and an appropriate rod licence issued by the Environment Agency will be allowed at the Boating Lake, Cleethorpes Country Park, and Sidney Park. There is also an effective any other comments box at the end of the survey, where participants are invited to raise other possible elements to be covered by the PSPO. Surveys in print are available by contacting the council’s consultation services. The survey’s runtime is not specified.