Council adopts Order to help prevent wildfires

Lighting fires, barbecues, fireworks and sky lanterns will be banned at high-risk locations across the High Peak, after High Peak Borough Council approved the introduction of a Public Spaces Protection Order.

Moorland fires can result in loss of life and property, damage to wildlife and biodiversity, loss of grazing land and damage to water catchments and supplies. The financial cost of fires can also be substantial.

The Council is adopting the Order after a recent public consultation showed support for the proposals which are aimed at helping to prevent fires starting as a result of human activity. The move follows an exceptionally dry spring and the recent fire in the Goyt Valley which destroyed 800 acres of moorland and woodland.

Councillor Godfrey Claff, Executive Councillor for Community Safety, said: “Wildfires can have a devastating impact and pose a very real threat to life and our environment as this year’s fires in America, and those much closer to home, have clearly shown.

“Some fires start because of careless or thoughtless behaviour so I’m delighted that we’ve approved this Order to help reduce the number of fires started by human activity.

“Of course, we want to welcome people to the High Peak to enjoy our fantastic landscapes, countryside and towns and villages but we are asking people to be mindful of their behaviour and to respect the people and places they are visiting.

“This Order will help us remind people of their responsibilities, and if necessary, take action to prevent people carrying out activities which could ultimately result in wildfires. I hope everyone will understand why we’re doing this and help us minimise fires and the very real damage they cause.”

The Order will be in place for three years and anyone breaching it could be fined £100.

The Council will work with partners to continue to raise awareness about the impact of fires and the introduction of this Order