Feedback wanted on extending wildfire and pony petting PSPOs

A formal consultation has been launched on proposals to extend two existing Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs).

The Orders, which were originally introduced in July 2023, aim to protect the unique landscape, wildlife and communities of the New Forest by reducing behaviours that present risks to both the environment and public safety.

New Forest District Council (NFDC) is proposing a three-year extension, from July 1, 2026, of the following PSPOs:

• PSPO No. 1 – BBQs and Wildfires
  This Order prohibits the use of BBQs and similar fire-related activities across specified areas of the New Forest to reduce the risk of wildfires.
• PSPO No. 2 – Feeding and Petting New Forest Livestock
  This Order restricts the feeding and petting of New Forest ponies, horses, mules and donkeys. These measures help keep both animals and the public safe by discouraging behaviours that can lead to increased aggression, illness or road accidents involving livestock.

The council is required under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, to demonstrate that an extension is necessary to prevent harmful activities from recurring or increasing in severity.

Before the PSPOs can be extended, NFDC must carry out statutory consultation, publicity and notification, and as part of this process, it is seeking input from community representatives – groups or individuals who represent people living in, working in or visiting the areas covered by the Orders.

The New Forest CDA has been identified as one of these community representatives and NFDC is inviting feedback on the proposals.

If you wish to respond to the consultation, please complete this online form

If you require support completing the survey, you can contact NFDC’s community safety team on 02380 285438. Paper copies of consultation documents are available on request.

The consultation closes at 5pm on Friday, 19 December.

Please note if you took part in the public consultation held earlier this year, you do not need to submit a further response.