Oxford City Council has introduced a three-year ban on open fires, barbecues, lanterns and fireworks across 41 parks and open spaces in the city, in response to the growing risk of wildfires.

The new Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), which comes into force on Friday, is intended to reduce the risk of accidental fires following an exceptionally hot and dry summer.

The restrictions apply to sites including Port Meadow and South Park, which the council identified based on factors including visitor numbers, the likelihood of ignition and the potential impact of a fire.

Anyone found lighting an open fire or using a barbecue, lantern or fireworks in the affected areas could face enforcement action and a fine. Both council officers and the police will have powers to enforce the restrictions.

In its report, Oxford City Council warned that without the PSPO, the risk of fires caused by these activities would increase. The council opted for a PSPO because introducing a new bye-law would require central government approval and take considerably longer.

The measures follow a period of heightened concern around outdoor fire risks. The UK has experienced its hottest summer on record, while prolonged dry conditions have contributed to wildfires across the country.

Oxfordshire has been particularly affected, experiencing one of its driest summers in living memory and a number of wildfires across the county. In July, the Environment Agency formally declared drought conditions across the Thames Valley, while Thames Water introduced a hosepipe ban.

The Government also introduced a temporary nationwide ban on disposable barbecues in August because of the significant fire risk they can pose.

The measures in Oxford highlight the importance of managing ignition sources during prolonged periods of hot and dry weather. With vegetation particularly vulnerable in these conditions, seemingly small sources of ignition can have serious consequences.

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) supports measures that help reduce preventable fire risks and encourages the public to follow local restrictions and fire-safety guidance when using parks and other open spaces.

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