New Forest: Fines for petting ponies and lighting barbecues

Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPO) could be introduced in the district following a sharp rise in the number of families flouting the Forest bylaws.

The proposal is due to be discussed by the district council's ruling cabinet next week.

A report to members says: "Failure to comply with a PSPO can result in a fixed penalty notice (maximum penalty £100) or prosecution through the magistrates’ court, with a maximum fine of £1,000.

Barbecues have been blamed for a spate of wildfires in the New Forest. Picture: Mac Hall (Image: Mac Hall)

"Used proportionately and in the right circumstances, PSPOs allow local areas to counter unreasonable and persistent behaviour that affects the quality of life.

READ MORE: Visitors to New Forest continue to flout barbecue ban

"They can send a clear message that certain behaviours will not be tolerated, and help reassure residents that unreasonable conduct is being addressed."

Part of the report deals with the issue of wildfires caused by campfires and disposable barbecues.

It also describes the dangers associated with people petting and feeding the ponies that roam the Forest.

Disposable barbecues have been blamed for a spate of wildfires in the New Forest (Image: Martini archive)

Animals learn to associate humans with food and often approach members of the public, which can result in people being bitten, kicked or knocked over.

The report says: "Animals can also become dependent on human food, which can seriously affect their health.

"People often dump windfall apples on the Forest, mistakenly believing they are of benefit to the ponies. Apples can not only cause choking but also colic, which can be fatal to ponies.

"Grass cuttings pose a particular danger. When eaten they ferment, creating gas and that can sometimes lead to a ruptured stomach."

READ MORE: Public Spaces Protection Order banning fires and BBQs

Cllr David Harrison said: "The first proposed PSPO would prohibit the lighting of fires and barbeques on land managed by Forestry England.

"The second would cover the feeding and petting of ponies, horses, mules and donkeys within the New Forest Perambulation - the area accessible to depastured stock.

Firefighters have been called to several blazes caused by barbecues. Picture: Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (Image: Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service)

"Actions covered by the proposed PSPOs are already prohibited, but without the ability to issue fixed penalty notices enforcement has been impractical."

If the council decides to proceed with the scheme the new measures could be introduced in time for next summer.

PSPOs are already used in towns and cities across the UK to prevent people drinking alcohol in the street.