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Published on Friday 12 August 2022

Bournemouth Pier on a busy morning

It’s the height of the summer season and with more hot weather forecast over the coming days, BCP Council is sharing some important summer safety advice, including things you can do to prevent fires and protect the environment.

Councillor Beverley Dunlop, BCP Council Portfolio Holder for Tourism Culture and Vibrant Places, said:

"It’s turning out to be a fantastically hot summer and our priority is to make sure everyone – residents and visitors – can enjoy our incredible coastline, open spaces and communities safely."

Councillor Mark Anderson, BCP Council Portfolio Holder for Environment and Place, said:

"With conditions remaining very dry, we all need to take extra care to look after our beaches and wildlife. Open fires, fire pits and fire bowls are not permitted at any time on our beaches, promenades, cliffs or cliff tops, or our precious nature reserves and heathlands. We also ask residents living near heathland and other high-risk areas to check their gardens and land surrounding their property for anything that could cause a potential fire. Never have a fire or BBQ on heathland, it is illegal to do so. We’ve already seen devastating fires on our heathlands this year at Canford Heath and it’s been incredibly upsetting to see the impact this has on rare animals and plant species. We don’t want to see this repeated, so be sensible, consider having a picnic instead and don’t leave any rubbish behind."

‘’If you’re heading down the beach, I would also remind you to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water. 150 plus free drinking water sites are ready for use across the seafront and will remain in place as part of our campaign with City to Sea.’’

"While most people do behave responsibly, we are asking everyone to help keep our beaches pristine. There is no excuse for littering as triple-sized bins are located all along our coastline.’’

In anticipation of a busy weekend, BCP Council is advising beachgoers to consider alternative car parks, as those at the seafront often fill up early in the morning. Residents and visitors can get real time updates on parking across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole using the council’s Beach Check app, which highlights areas and parts of the beach are that quieter. The council’s Park & Ride Beach Bus service from Kings Park to Boscombe Pier will also be in operation and offers a low-cost parking alternative.

Councillor Dunlop continues:

"We’ve also been working hard to make sure everyone understands the rules around overnight beach camping. Bylaw signage has now been put up at key locations. We ask people to be respectful, overnight camping is not allowed on our beaches, and we have a team that will disrupt campers who risk an early wakeup call and a £1000 fine."

Additional information

To help protect heathland, residents are advised to report any incident, problems or suspicious behaviour to BCP Council on 01202 265 265. In the event of an emergency, such as a fire, call 999. Never take risks or put yourself in danger.

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