A BAN on unauthorised beach camping and barbeques could be extended across Studland in a bid to prevent wildfires and protect wildlife.

Dorset Council is proposing two public space protection orders (PSPO) designed to help tackle heathland fires, and anti-social overnight camping.

These PSPOs are in place in other areas throughout Dorset – but not Studland itself.

The current orders are set to expire in June this year and are likely to be extended for another three years.

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The first PSPO aims to extend controls on the lighting of fires on open land, particularly in areas of open heathland.

This would include 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.

Dorset Council says this order aims to address issues of anti-social behaviour related to fires started in grass, heathland, and forest areas which can pose risks to life, damage biodiversity and habitats, and can lead to significant economic losses from tourism and other land uses.

The second PSPO concerns Studland Beach itself.

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 issues of ‘wild camping’ on Dorset beaches, which have led to increased nuisance complaints, property damage, rubbish accumulation, human waste, and destruction of natural habitats.

Councillor Gill Taylor, Dorset Council’s cabinet member for health and housing, is encouraging everyone to look at the proposals.

“These orders are important for the protection of our natural landscapes, and for protecting the safety and amenity of our residents and visitors to our wonderful county,” she said.

“Similar orders for other areas have been in place for the past three years, helping to raise awareness of the issues. This consultation is an important part of helping us ensure that views and comments are taken into consideration when we look to make the orders later this year.

“I strongly encourage everyone to please have a look at the proposals and let us know what you think.”

Both consultations opened on Monday, February 24 and close on Sunday, April 20.

Click here for the Dorset open land PSPO consultation.

Click here for the Dorset beaches (Studland) PSPO consultation.