Beauty spot ban considered

Cannock Chase could close to summer visitors

People may be banned from a popular beauty spot this summer to protect it from fire.

Parts of Cannock Chase in Staffordshire could close to reduce the risk of arson or accidents occuring during the very hot weather.

Staffordshire Councy Council say it is not the first time such measures have been taken to reduce the problem.

It confirmed emergency measures could be taken to close roads over the Chase at times of high risk.

Lessen risk

Councillor Jim Muir warned that the authority had the power to close areas of the Chase to the public and could use them to protect the site.

He said: "If stopping people going into the area can lessen the risk, then we have to take it seriously.

"There is no point keeping the Chase open for weeks during the very hot weather if that then means it is lost to visitors for years, should the increased risks lead to a fire."

Closure could be effected within 24 hours, including routes over the Chase through emergency highways orders

Staffordshire County Council

A report for Staffordshire Council Council said a fire plan existed for all country parks in the county.

This included preparations for the implementation of statutory closures when necessary.

"Parts of, but not the entire, Cannock Chase has been closed on a number of occasions in the past decade," said the report.

"Closure could be effected within 24 hours, including routes over the Chase through emergency highways orders."

The report added that enforcing closures in the past had led to arrests and prosecutions.

Staffordshire County Council has worked with the district councils who share the responsibilities for the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty as well as other interested organisations to draw up a plan for the management of the site.