6 days Ago
WEST Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (WYFRS) has urged Bradford Council to extend its ban on barbecues and fires on the district’s moorlands, saying it was a “crucial step” in reducing wildfires. In 2019, the Council introduced a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to protect moorlands from devastating blazes. It meant that anyone caught lighting a barbecue, fire or setting off fireworks or lanterns in moorland areas could face a £100 fine.
The orders only last three years, but due to the success of the first order, it was extended in 2022. That second order expires this summer, but Bradford Council is now consulting on whether it should be further extended to 2028. Members of the Council’s Regulatory and Appeals Committee voted to begin the consultation at their last meeting.
To have your say, visit bradford.moderngov.co.
uk/mgConsultationDisplay A report to members said: “Wildfire is a consistent risk on the district’s open spaces, particularly moorland sites where public access is allowed. A significant portion of the district’s moorland areas is subject to rights of access. “Members of the public rightly visit these areas for recreation purposes, but often this includes lighting campfires or portable barbecues.
“Evidence used to support the implementation of the original PSPO in 2019 shows that a number of incidences of wildfire had been recorded in the Bradford district – many of which will have been the result of careless or negligent behaviour in respect of fires and barbecues, rather than deliberate arson. “Since the PSPO was enacted in the Bradford district, there have been, thankfully, no serious wildfire incidents.” WYFRS has written to the Council to say they fully support the order being extended.
A letter from Chief Fire Officer John Roberts said: “Over the past three years, we have witnessed several devastating moorland fires that underscore the urgent need for effective wildfire prevention measures. “The last significant fire we had on Ilkley Moor was 2019, which affected over 25,000 sqm. It remains a significant upland risk to us.
“Crews were called to an incident on Marsden Moor where they dealt with a large moorland fire on the 5th March. The smoke from this blaze was visible from parts of south Bradford, illustrating the widespread impact such fires can have on our communities. “The frequency and severity of moorland fires have been increasing, posing significant threats to our environment, wildlife, and local economies.
“Initiatives like the Public Space Protection Order introduced by Bradford Council, which prohibits the use of barbecues, fires, and other potential fire hazards on moorlands, are crucial steps in mitigating these risks.”.
