Dorset Council proposes plans to prevent fires around Studland

Concerned about wildfires and unauthorised beach camping at Studland, Dorset Council is proposing two new Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) – with people being asked their views.

The PSPO on open land would control the lighting of fires, particularly in areas of open heathland. It addresses issues of anti-social behaviour related to starting fires in grass, heathland, and forest areas.

Such fires pose risks to life, damage biodiversity and habitats, and can lead to significant economic losses from tourism and other land uses. The order includes provisions against placing, throwing, or dropping items likely to cause a fire, lighting fires, barbeques (including disposable ones), Chinese lanterns, fireworks, or using items that cause a naked flame or pose a fire risk.

The Dorset Beach PSPO would extend the control on camping on Studland Beach. It would make it an offence to camp on designated land without permission from the landowner or when asked to leave. This measure is in response to instances of ‘wild camping’ on Dorset beaches, which have led to increased nuisance complaints, property damage, rubbish accumulation, human waste, and destruction of natural habitats.