Plans to tackle wild camping issues in Scarborough and Whitby
Council to consider restrictions on coastal camping and fires
Councillors in North Yorkshire are set to review new measures aimed at controlling illegal wild camping, the lighting of fires, and barbeques in Scarborough and Whitby.
Earlier this year, a consultation was conducted by North Yorkshire Council as part of efforts to introduce a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO).
This initiative has been spurred by a rise in unauthorised camping on coastal parks and green spaces, causing concern over environmental damage and anti-social behaviour.
Designated problem areas include Royal Albert Park, Castle Dyke, South Cliff and Italian Gardens, Scalby Beck, Marvels, Peasholm Park, Museum Terrace and Gardens in Scarborough, and the open spaces surrounding Whitby Abbey and Pannett Park.
The consultation garnered 402 responses, with many voicing concerns about hygiene issues such as human waste and the detrimental impact on the community.
Cllr Heather Phillips is the executive member for community safety: “In recent years, the impact of wild camping has been detrimental on the environment in popular locations across Whitby and Scarborough.
“There has been an influx of littering and antisocial behaviour, including damage to seats and benches, burning of the ground and vegetation, and defecating and urinating.
“I would like to thank everybody for sharing their views in the consultation, which will help to shape our decision.”
From May to October 2024, the clean-up and repair costs due to unauthorised camping exceeded £30,000, not including police and fire service costs.
Should the PSPO be adopted, the council would gain powers to enforce penalties, including fixed fines of up to £100 and court convictions leading to fines as high as £1,000.
The proposal is scheduled for discussion at a council meeting on 1st May.