Plans to restrict overnight camping and sleeping in vehicles at seaside resorts in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole have been dropped. Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council approved two Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) to limit anti-social behaviour and fire risks, but a proposed third order to stop beach and car park overnight camping was not progressed.
Residents in seafront areas had insisted restrictions were needed on so-called fly-camping. During a cabinet meeting, Canford Cliffs ward councillor John Challinor said: 'On sunny days visitors arrive early and sadly find the sight of tents pitched on the beach. It sends a message that visitors - who do not pay council tax - can camp on our beaches with impunity or park in campervans as an impromptu campsite.'
Portfolio Holder for housing and regulatory services, Kieron Wilson, said there was 'strong public support' for the two PSPOs covering open spaces and coastal areas. He said implementing the third option, covering highways and car parks, would have been open to legal challenge, but added the extent of the PSPOs would be kept under review.
'This is a positive step forward in making our beautiful coastal areas more enjoyable places to be,' he said. The process of introducing the two PSPOs is due to begin by late summer. A failure to comply with a PSPO can result in either a Fixed Penalty Notice of up to £100 or prosecution through the magistrates' court with a maximum fine of £1,000.
