By Isle of Wight Observer
Island residents are being asked for their views on whether the use of disposable barbecues, and the release of sky lanterns and balloons, should be restricted on council-owned land.
The IW council has launched a public consultation on a proposal that could lead to a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) covering beaches, seafronts, parks, playgrounds, country parks, and other open spaces across the Island.
The consultation will run until Tuesday January 27. The aim is to assess whether these activities are causing a nuisance, and to gauge public support for possible restrictions.
The proposed measures are intended to reduce environmental damage, increase fire risks, and injuries to wildlife, linked to discarded barbecue waste and debris from sky lanterns and balloons.
A PSPO is a legal tool available to local authorities under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime & Policing Act 2014. Breaching a PSPO can result in a fixed penalty notice or prosecution.
Cllr Karen Lucioni, chairman of the council’s Environment and Community Safety Committee, said the council wanted to hear from as many people as possible. She said public views would help determine whether the activities were causing problems and whether restrictions would be supported.
The survey is available on-line via iw.observer/pspo. Paper copies can be collected from County Hall, and postal copies can be requested by calling 821000 or emailing PublicRealmOfficers@iow.gov.uk.