Ms Dawn
Hudd, the Head of Regeneration and Economic Development, presented
a report proposing the Banning of Chinese Lanterns at any event or
activity held on Council owned land to the Committee.
It was
noted that:
·
Farmers’ groups and animal charities had long
pushed for the lanterns to be withdrawn from sale as the burnt out
remains could endanger the lives of animals who find
them.
·
A blanket ban of Chinese lanterns would be
unenforceable and would require a change in byelaws.
RESOLVED:
1.
That the use and release of sky lanterns is banned
from land and property owned or managed by Maidstone Borough
Council at all activities and events organised, supported, funded
by (fully or partially) and/or licensed by this
authority.
2.
That an information campaign is launched to
discourage the use of Sky Lanterns by residents and
visitors.
3.
That Parish Councils within the Borough are
contacted to encourage them to produce
similar ban on their own land and property.
Voting: Unanimous