Wakefield Council is urging residents not to have barbecues or start fires in any of the district's parks, countryside sites or green spaces following a rise in fires this summer.
The warning comes after the Government issued emergency alerts about increased wildfire risk. A temporary ban on the sale of disposable barbecues has also been introduced to help reduce the risk of wildfires during the current hot and dry conditions.
Recent Fire Incidents
The Council's Countryside team has recorded a number of fire-related incidents in recent weeks. In July 2026, Countryside Officers were called to extinguish a fire started by a barbecue at Notton Woods. A separate fire was also reported at the Roundwood tree planting site during the same month.
At Newland Country Park, two fires were reported in July. Pugneys Country Park continues to be a particular concern, with Officers regularly finding discarded barbecues, scorched grass and damaged benches. The site has also experienced issues linked to antisocial behaviour. In 2025, a bird hide was destroyed in an act of arson.
Why the Ban Matters
Despite recent rainfall, the prolonged period of hot, dry weather has left grassland and vegetation extremely dry and vulnerable to fire. Even a small barbecue can spark a fire that spreads rapidly and causes significant damage to wildlife, habitats and public spaces.
Wakefield Council's Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood Services said: "We've seen devastating fires across the country that have had significant consequences. It only takes one barbecue or one unattended flame to start a fire that can spread quickly and put people, wildlife and the environment at risk.
"Our parks and countryside are there for everyone to enjoy responsibly. Barbecues and open fires have no place in these locations. We ask people not to bring barbecues or to light fires in any of our green spaces. Enjoy a picnic instead or if you want to have a barbecue, do it safely at home."
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has also issued guidance urging people to take extra care during the current dry conditions and to follow advice from local authorities and emergency services to help prevent fires.
