Local group launches petition to ban BBQs at Canoe Lake
A petition to ban barbecues at Canoe Lake has been launched
A local litter picking group has called on Portsmouth City Council to introduce a ban on barbecues at Canoe Lake in Southsea.
Community group Protect Our Parks Portsmouth has launched a petition urging the council to prohibit barbecue use near the historic lake.
The Change.org petition has attracted more than 1,500 signatures and highlights concerns about the impact on wildlife and the condition of the area.
It describes Canoe Lake as a “vital sanctuary for wildlife and a cherished nursery for our swan population.
“The current situation is unsustainable, ecologically damaging, and a drain on public funds. Canoe Lake is the heart of our local community.”
Members of the group took part in a clean-up earlier this month following celebrations of Vaisakhi around the lake by visiting members of the Sikh community.
Litter left at the site prompted criticism online and an apology from representatives of the local Sikh community.
Dave Tek, a member of Protect Our Parks, said the campaign is not aimed at any particular group and stressed the organisation is non political.
“We’re all for people having a good time but maybe that area is getting too busy and overrun – we’ve got a lot of other areas where people can barbecue.”
“There are areas on Southsea Common which is more suitable as you’re away from the wildlife and it can handle bigger groups”.
He said the group is “trying to be positive” and is also calling on the council to improve the condition of the site, which he described as becoming “tired” and “worn”.
The petition calls for a ban on barbecues to protect the swan population, alongside new bylaws to strengthen enforcement and a bid for Lottery funding to support improvements to the 140-year-old site.
A Portsmouth City Council spokesperson said: “We installed CCTV at Canoe Lake earlier this year to monitor activity and use of the space, following local resident concerns about several issues at the park.
“Now that the CCTV is operational, information will be gathered this spring and summer to review whether changes need to be made, including the use of barbecues. We also intend to apply for funding for a range of improvements to Canoe Lake park next year.
“Canoe Lake is looked after by our parks team, with additional support from our other teams, who regularly remind visitors how to enjoy the park responsibly, to help keep it clean, protect wildlife, and make it a welcoming and safe space for all. This includes taking litter home or using the bins provided and safely disposing of barbecues in the designated areas.
“Our countryside officers work closely with swan and wildlife experts to make sure decisions are based on national guidance and are in the best interests of the birds. We have looked at the idea of fixed barbecue areas, but because Canoe Lake is a listed park, permanent barbecue points are not permitted. For this reason, this option is unlikely to be taken forward.”