North West authorities renew plans to prevent moorland fires

Moorland at Winter Hill, Rivington, was scorched during a 2018 fire

A ban on activities that could lead to moorland fires has been renewed, as authorities prepare for warmer months.

A Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) ban on barbeques, campfires, stoves, fireworks and paper lanterns covers Darwen, Bolton and Chorley.

It was first introduced in August and is one of the largest PSPOs in effect in England.

It comes after a series of devastating moorland fires, including a major incident at Winter Hill in 2018.

The PSPO was introduced by Lancashire and Greater Manchester's fire services, police forces and councils.

Officers patrol at-risk areas during hot and busy days, reminding people of their responsibilities, and anyone breaching the order will risk a fine of up to £1000.

During the Winter Hill fires in 2018, more 100 firefighters tackled the blaze, supported by the military, volunteers from local mountain rescue teams and a helicopter from United Utilities.

In May 2020, ten crews were brought in to battle a large fire started by a disposable BBQ on Darwen Moor.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service's area manager, Matt Hamer, said the county knew "only too well" the extensive damage from recent moorland fires.

"As spring approaches, we start to see an increase of calls for moorland and grass fires as the warm and dry weather begins, and the direct impact of wildfires upon our communities can be massive and can tie up critical emergency service resource," he said.

Insp Lisa Clarke from Greater Manchester Police described the consequences of the fires as "devastating" to not only local residents, but to the loss of habitats and destruction of wildlife.

She said she hoped the move would deter the lighting of fires and encourage "positive policing action".

Bolton councillor Sue Haworth said: "I'm pleased to say that the ban on risky activities has been a fantastic example of different organisations working together very effectively for a common good."