Help us to protect all we have to offer
REGULAR readers will be aware that we often repeat key messages that are aimed at ensuring everyone gets the most from their visit to this spectacular mosaic of habitats and wildlife.
While the vast majority of visitors understand the need to treat the coastline with respect and not disturb the incredible wildlife that can be found here, each year a small minority can cause damage and distress.
All visitors should be aware that fires, bbqs and camping are not allowed, and litter should be disposed of properly or taken home.
Wildlife and habitats should not be disturbed or damaged – this is a key responsibility for all visitors to the coast, whether you are a walker, dog owner, horse rider, jogger, photographer, kiter or trekker.
So Sefton Council has launched a consultation on a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) across coastal and visitor areas, which could include tackling certain anti-social behaviours.
A Public Space Protection Order is an official measure that is an enforceable part of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.
Although most visitors know how to behave, sadly there are some who can act in an inappropriate manner that causes distress and disturbance, as well as causing damage in the area.
PSPOs along Sefton’s coastline help the council’s officers and its partner agencies by making clear what is acceptable and unacceptable.
Officers are developing the list of restrictions to be included in the PSPO, including the right to confiscate alcohol from those causing antisocial behaviour in certain locations.
These will be based on the existing Sefton Byelaws and in line with legislation associated with the protected status of the Sefton Coast.
Cllr Ian Moncur, cabinet member for Health and Wellbeing said: “While the majority of visitors do respect Sefton’s natural coast, we are keen to explore more ways to support council officers and partner agencies manage those few who behave inconsiderately and who could cause damage to our unique natural coast.
“We want all people coming to our beautiful coastline to enjoy their visit but also to do their bit to protect the environmentally sensitive site for other people, for residents and for generations to come.
“I encourage all residents and visitors alike to share their thoughts and take part in the consultation.”
Cllr Paulette Lappin, cabinet member regulatory, compliance and corporate services, said: “The use of Public Spaces Protection Orders are favoured by many local authorities as there is the opportunity to issue fixed penalty notices at the time of the offence being committed, allowing officers more powers in managing visitor behaviour.
“Please take the time to read the proposed order and tell us what you think about it.”
You can have your say about these proposals by taking part in a public consultation which will run until Friday, June 24, with the aim for the order to be active from July 2022 to July 2025.
The survey will be available online on the Council’s consultation portal, Your Sefton Your Say, which you can find at https://yourseftonyoursay. sefton.gov.uk/green-sefton/publicspacesprotection-order-for-coastalvisitor/
Hard copy versions of the questionnaire will also be available and will be in Easy Read format.
Help us respect, protect and enjoy the incredible Sefton Coast... we really are fortunate to have such a rich and protected landscape on our doorstep and we all have a responsibility to ensure it is just as rich for future generations.
John works for Green Sefton, the Sefton Council service that brings together the coast & countryside, parks & green spaces, flooding & coastal erosion, risk management and grounds maintenance teams for a joined-up approach to the vital management, development and oversight of Sefton’s beautiful coastline, parks and green spaces. This column looks at the flora, fauna and history of the coastline, and the work carried out to protect it.