Dorchester residents warned not to light bonfire on play area amid safety fears
Ahead of bonfire night, councillors in Dorchester are warning people not to set fire to objects on a local field
Dorchester residents have been warned not to build or light a bonfire on a town play area after concerns were raised about safety, fly-tipping and the potential strain on emergency services.
Dorchester Town Council said it had become aware of plans for a large bonfire on its land at Elizabeth Place but had not given permission for the event.
The council said the greenspace was not a safe place for an uncontrolled fire and could put residents, pets and wildlife at risk.
Ward councillor Les Fry said the bonfire had grown over the years as people added unwanted items including fridges, sofas and tyres.
The resulting pile created hazards when burned and left the council responsible for clearing the site afterwards.
“Without a named organiser there is no one who can be communicated with for all the information needed to organise or support,” he said.
The town council said Dorset Police and Dorset Fire and Rescue Service had also raised concerns that an unregulated event could place additional demands on emergency services.
Cllr Fry warned that injuries could occur if fireworks were thrown into the blaze. He also questioned the council’s potential liability if an incident took place.
The council said it was unaware of any organiser having public liability insurance or completing risk assessments to protect residents and nearby homes.
Les Fry said a bonfire might be possible if someone accepted responsibility, arranged insurance and submitted a construction plan. He suggested housing associations such as Magna could potentially take on that role.
However, the council’s notice makes its current position clear: residents are being asked not to leave materials on the Elizabeth Place greenspace or build or light a bonfire there at any time.