A police officer has expressed concern after finding barriers and signs at a closed beauty spot moved aside, with a group from West Yorkshire caught smoking cannabis at Dovestone Reservoir.
Barriers and signs moved at Bank Lane
Sergeant Andy Holian, of Greater Manchester Police, said the signs and barriers at the entrance of Bank Lane and Holmfirth Road had been moved to the side of the road on Saturday evening (August 1). He said he came across several people smoking cannabis and "going for a walk" at the reservoir despite its closure.
The officer later found "surprised" young men in the car park of the reservoir. According to PS Holian, the group had travelled from West Yorkshire to "take pictures and have a chance to smoke cannabis in such a lovely setting that Dovestone provides."
Cannabis found during search
The men were searched and one was found in possession of cannabis. PS Holian said he was "subsequently dealt with for the offence" before the group was removed. Upon leaving the reservoir, the sergeant encountered three separate groups of people walking into the area before they were made aware of the closure.
Police thanks residents and warns visitors
In an update to the Saddleworth community, Sergeant Holian stressed that the visitors he encountered were not from the area and thanked local residents for staying away from Dovestone while work is carried out to make the area safe again.
"I must stress that all persons were visitors to the area and not local residents. So, whilst this post is to inform you that I and my Neighbourhood Team (Saddleworth & Lees) patrol the area of Dovestone in its closed phase, and will robustly deal with anyone found there. We also as a team want to thank you all (residents) for your continued support, and your evident assistance you are providing by continuing to stay away from Dovestone, allowing GMFRS to carry out their preventative operations, thank you!"
Access closed after wildfire
All access to Dovestone Reservoir has been closed to the public since a devastating wildfire decimated the landmark. Temporary traffic restrictions are in place, with access only available to emergency services and residents.
Amid the major incident at the beauty spot, new restrictions have been put in place by Oldham Council. Firefighters continue to tackle hotspots in "dry and challenging conditions."
