Discarded firework casings have been discovered at a popular beauty spot in Oldham, prompting renewed warnings from police about the dangers of prohibited items on protected moorland. The find was reported on Thursday, April 30, in an area covered by a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), where fireworks, barbecues and any form of open flame are strictly banned.

While no damage to the moorland or surrounding area appears to have been caused this time, officers say the discovery is worrying and highlights that some visitors are still bringing prohibited items into the protected zone. The PSPO is in place to help prevent devastating moorland fires and protect both the landscape and nearby homes and businesses, particularly during drier weather when the risk can increase rapidly.

Police are now urging walkers, visitors and local residents to stay alert and report anyone seen carrying fireworks, disposable barbecues or anything involving an open flame. Neighbourhood officers say patrols will continue across Dovestones and the wider protected area, with action being taken against anyone found breaching the rules.

PC Louie Cocks, Neighbourhood Beat Officer for Saddleworth West and Lees, said the discarded casings were a reminder that the restrictions remain vital in protecting the countryside. "Visitors heading to Dovestones should remember that even seemingly harmless items can pose a serious threat when brought onto vulnerable moorland, particularly as temperatures begin to rise heading into summer," he added.

The latest incident comes as councillors have voiced strong concerns over the continued sale of disposable barbecues and fireworks in local shops, with Saddleworth Parish Council (SPC) calling on Oldham Council to take immediate action. Several moorland fires in recent years have been started by people using and discarding the grills, as well as fireworks and lanterns, prompting calls for tighter controls.

Meanwhile, the Open Moorlands Public Spaces Protection Order, which has been in place since 2022, is set to be extended. Originally due to expire on October 31, Oldham borough councillors have been notified that the regulations will continue, maintaining the ban on lighting fires, barbecues and fireworks on moorland across Saddleworth.

Under the order, people caught with a lit barbecue or bonfire on the moors could face a £90 on-the-spot fine. Oldham and Tameside Councils have jointly proposed introducing two public space protection orders covering land spanning Saddleworth Moor and Marsden Moor, further strengthening protections.

With summer approaching and temperatures rising, authorities are reminding all visitors to follow the rules, respect the countryside, and help prevent the kind of devastating moorland fires that have scarred the landscape in previous years. Anyone witnessing prohibited activity is urged to report it to the police or local council.