An order banning the lighting of fires and barbecues had been expanded to cover more areas of the county's heathland and forests in a bid to prevent wildfires Picture: Dorset Council

Overnight camping ban for Studland Beach to reduce anti-social behaviour

Tait ap EllisJuly 24, 20250 Comment0

OVERNIGHT camping on Studland Beach has now been banned as part of efforts to protect the sensitive coastal environment.

Anyone caught camping overnight could now face a £100 fine.

The move comes as Dorset Council has introduced two new Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) to tackle anti-social behaviour.

As well as the overnight camping ban, the council has also expanded restrictions on lighting fires and BBQs to cover additional areas of heathland and forest across Dorset, following concerns about wildfire risks and environmental damage.

Previous PSPOs have also been extended for three more years.

These include drinking alcohol in public, aggressive begging, the feeding of gulls, overnight camping on beaches and the lighting of fires and BBQs on open land.

Shaun Milton, group manager for Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service welcomed the expanded fire-related restrictions, citing the devastating Wareham Forest fire in 2020 as a stark reminder of the risks posed by open flames in natural areas.

He said: “We fully support these measures. Preventing fires before they start is the most effective way to protect lives, property, and the environment.”

Forestry England also endorsed the move.

“We’ve seen the damage that careless use of BBQs and campfires can cause,” a spokesperson said. “These new protections are a welcome step in preserving Dorset’s forests for future generations.”

Councillor Gill Taylor, portfolio holder for health and housing at Dorset Council, said: “Renewing our existing PSPOs means continuing the important safeguards that have been in place for several years—protections our residents have told us they value.

“In addition to these renewals, we’re introducing two new orders: one to help preserve the natural beauty and tranquillity of Studland Beach, and another to protect our rare heathland habitats, which are home to some of the UK’s most endangered wildlife.

“Dorset should be an enjoyable place for our residents and visitors alike. By working with our partners, these orders help us to deal with a small minority of people who can spoil it for others.”

For full details of the orders, including maps, penalties, and exemptions, visit the website.