Council consults on extending ‘No moor fires’ ban

Tuesday, 10 March 2026 13:29

By Central Radio News

A ban on barbeques, campfires, sky lanterns and fireworks across the moors in East Lancashire is up for review.

The public space protection order (PSPO) aims to cut the risk of wildfires on moorland around Darwen, and adjoining moorland covered by Chorley Council and Bolton Council.

The restrictions must be renewed every few years, meaning that Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council has begun a consultation on whether to extend them. New restrictions would last for a further three years.

The ban applies to public open space, meaning any land or premises within the restricted area where there is public access or right of way. Breaching the restrictions is a criminal offence and could result in a fine of up to £1,000.

Among the biggest risks are disposable BBQs, campfires, fireworks, sky lanterns, cigarettes and broken glass.

Fires can destroy precious habitats, harm plants and animals, cause significant air and water pollution, and release greenhouse gases. The cost of controlling them, damage to farmland, lost income from tourism and the impact on local businesses can lead to significant economic consequences.

Councillor Damian Talbot, Executive Member for Housing and Public Health Said:

Protecting our moorlands is incredibly important. It’s such a crucial habitat that is a home to incredible species including ground nesting birds such as the curlew – one of Britain’s most endangered birds.

Moor fires are a huge threat to peat too. It takes 1,000 years to accumulate just 1 meter of peat, which is amazing at storing carbon, helping tackle climate change.

I hope you’ll join me in supporting the call to extend the public space order to ensure our moors have the protection they deserve.

The consultation runs from Monday 9 March to Friday 20 April. Respond to the consultation now.