Green Spaces

Footfall at national parks, beaches and parks has increased significantly since lockdown restrictions were relaxed, leading to an increase in anti-social behaviour, littering and risk of wildfire (due to use of disposable barbecues). Issues reported in green spaces have included: - Wildfires caused by disposable BBQs - the National Trust reported that at Studland Beach, fire crews extinguished 30 unattended barbecues in one night. - Increase in volumes of litter left behind (often there are no bins in these locations so litter should be taken home). The major incident declared at Bournemouth Beach (25 June) saw 12 tonnes of rubbish left by the crowds. This has had widespread media pickup which has focused on the volumes of litter. The National Trust have also reported clearing Dovedale in the Peak District where 100 bin bags were filled in a weekend. - Anti-social behaviour such as parties, overnight camping, off road motor-biking, issues with mountain bikers, vandalism or removal of public signs and fencing. - Environmental issues with people disturbing bird nesting colonies and other incidences of disrespecting wildlife. Our key objective: Increased awareness of the messages promoted in the Countryside Code among target audience to lead to a reduction in this behaviour. The Countryside Code messages: Protect the natural environment - Leave no trace of your visit, take all your litter home - Don't have BBQs or fires - Keep dogs under effective control - Dog poo - bag it and bin it Respect other people - Consider the local community and other people enjoying the outdoors - Leave gates and property as you find them - Follow paths but give way to others where it's narrow - Park carefully so access to gateways and driveways are clear Enjoy the outdoors - Plan ahead, check what facilities are open, be prepared - Follow advice and local signs and obey social distancing measures Natural England, the organisation responsible for the Countryside Code

Additional information: Please note that Defra procurement uses an E-tendering system for Procurement activities. This is currently provided by Bravo Solutions. To access appropriate tendering and contractual documents, please access the E-Tendering portal at https://defra.bravosolution.co.uk", ensuring that your registration includes "Defra". If you have any problems with this system, please contact Bravo on their telephone helpline number 0800 368 4850 or by emailing them at [email protected].