Decision - Public Space Protection Orders - barbecues, lanterns and balloons: Outcome of Public Consultation

1) That Committee note the results of the public consultation as detailed in Appendix 1. 2) That Committee agrees to make a PSPO to stop the use of single-use, disposable barbecues and the release of lanterns and balloons in or on council-owned parks, open spaces and the seafront. 3) That Committee requests officers bring a report back to a future meeting of ETS, outlining alternative provisions (such as, but not limited to; permanent communal barbecue pits), that could be provided to allow residents without gardens or outdoor spaces the opportunity to enjoy barbecues. 4) That Committee approves the updated Environmental Enforcement Framework as detailed in Appendix 2 (tracked changes version) and Appendix 3 (clean version). 5) That Committee approve the £100 fine for failure to comply with the PSPOs. 6) That Committee authorise Environmental Enforcement Officers to issue Fixed Penalty Notices for non-compliance with PSPOs in respect of the use of single-use barbecues and the release of lanterns and balloons.

The assessment considers the equality impacts of introducing Public Space Protection Orders to prohibit single-use disposable barbecues and the release of lanterns and balloons in council-owned parks, open spaces and on the seafront. It identifies potential disproportionate impacts on people on low incomes, disabled people, some ethnic and religious groups, carers, and people with low literacy or numeracy, with website information, signage and monitoring proposed as mitigations.