A MAJOR UK city has imposed a three-year ban on the use of disposable barbecues in parks over the risk of wildfires.
Under the new rules, those caught lighting the portable grills in most of the city’s open spaces could face fines.
Oxford City Council has approved a three-year ban on disposable barbecues, open fires and fireworks under a new Public Space Protection Order (PSPO).
Applying to 41 sites across the city, including many of Oxford’s parks and open spaces, those caught lighting open fires, barbecues, lanterns or fireworks may risk fines of £100.
The new rules are set to be implemented from tomorrow (September 4), in a bid to help “reduce the risk of wildfires”, according to the council.
This comes as the Met Office declared five heatwaves this summer, with the dry weather sparking wildfires across the country.
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A report by council officers added that the sites were selected as a result of footfall and “risk of ignition”.
The report also noted that “in the absence of a PSPO, the risk of fires started by barbecues, open fires, lanterns and fireworks would increase”.
Failure to pay the penalty, or if found to have caused serious damage, may also lead to prosecution and fines of up to £1,000.
Councillor Anna Railton, cabinet member for planning and zero carbon Oxford said: “Oxford is fortunate to have so many beautiful green spaces at the heart of the city, but that also increases the risk of fires spreading to nearby homes and properties.
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“We have therefore reluctantly taken the decision to increase the powers available to tackle reckless behaviour.
“Enforcement action is always a last resort, but these powers are there if needed to protect people’s homes, our green spaces and wildlife habitats that are already under significant pressure.”
Despite the new rules, the city council has confirmed that long-running fireworks events, such as the Oxford Roundtable fireworks show, will take place.
This is as a result of the “reasonable justification” clause in the order which allows for planned and sanctioned activities to go ahead.