A new policy could be put in place to clamp down on anti-social behaviour in North Tyneside’s public spaces.
North Tyneside Council is set to develop a new policy that will make clear what type of activities and events are allowed on its land.
The aim is to ensure the local authority’s parks, beaches and other open spaces are enjoyable and safe places for residents and visitors to enjoy.
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It follows a rise in complaints about inappropriate activities in public open spaces such as the use of drones at St Mary’s Lighthouse Nature Reserve, which Natural England has classed as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSI).
This increase has caused disturbances and a potential danger to wildlife. Other activities such as balloon and sky lantern releases can be harmful to the environment and can also pose a fire risk.
At a meeting of the local authority’s Cabinet on Monday, approval was given for council officers to agree the principle of implementing the policy which, once drafted, would be subject to a six-week consultation process.
Elected Mayor Norma Redfearn said: “We want to ensure our award-winning parks and beaches, as well as other spaces, can continue to be enjoyed.
“It’s also important that the environment and local wildlife are protected too.
“This new policy will make clear what type of activities can take place on the council’s land as well those which are not considered to be acceptable.”
The Cabinet report states there has been an increase in enquiries to use land that is owned by the local authority for miscellaneous activities.
Examples of the activities that will be considered as part of the development of the policy are:
Use of UAVs or drones on SSSI sites (unless approved by Natural England)
Setting off fireworks/firework displays
The release of balloons and/or sky lanterns
Camping
Bonfires or firepits
The riding or racing of quadbikes and/or motorbikes
Metal detecting
