Public Spaces Protection Order consultations
Public Spaces Protection Orders – ban on barbecues, sky lanterns, balloon releases
Consultation opens: Tuesday 16 December 2025
Consultation closed: Tuesday 27 January 2026
Overview
The Isle of Wight Council is seeking views on a proposed Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) to ban the use of disposable barbecues and the release of sky lanterns and balloons on council-owned land, including beaches, seafronts, parks, playgrounds, country parks, and open spaces.
Why are we consulting?
The consultation aims to establish whether these activities are causing a nuisance and to understand public and stakeholder support for introducing a PSPO. These measures are intended to reduce environmental harm, fire risks, and wildlife injuries caused by disposable barbecues, lanterns, and balloons.
Areas covered by the proposed PSPO
- beaches
- seafronts (including promenades, walls, slipways, and beach access steps)
- parks and playgrounds
- country parks
- open spaces (including sports and recreational facilities)
Background
Under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, local authorities can introduce PSPOs to address behaviours that negatively impact quality of life. Evidence shows that disposable barbecues and lantern/balloon releases pose risks such as:
- injury to people and animals from improperly disposed barbecues
- fire hazards from barbecue waste in bins
- harm to wildlife and livestock from balloon and lantern debris
- increased clean-up and disposal costs
National campaigns and other councils have taken similar steps. For example, Dorset Council has banned barbecues in high fire-risk areas, and the RSPCA campaigns to end sky litter.
Consultation requirements
Before introducing a PSPO, the council must consult statutory bodies (including the Chief Officer of Police and Police and Crime Commissioner), stakeholders, and the public. The process will be transparent and inclusive, ensuring accessibility for all groups.
Alternative options considered
| Option | Description | Why not recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Voluntary Code of Conduct | Encourage avoidance through signage and campaigns. | Lacks enforceability; previous efforts had limited impact. |
| Public Education Campaigns | Targeted campaigns on risks via social media and schools. | Insufficient alone to prevent harmful behaviours. |
| Event Licensing Conditions | Restrict use through event permits. | Only applies to organised events; does not address informal use. |
| Retailer Engagement | Work with retailers to withdraw disposable BBQs from sale. | Limited reach; lacks enforcement mechanism. |
How to take part
Responses will help shape the final decision on whether to implement the PSPO.