Smoke-free beaches plan stubbed out

Proposals to ban smoking in Brighton and Hove's beaches have been scrapped, after 72.7% of people who responded to a consultation strongly opposed the idea.

Brighton and Hove City Council commissioned a survey to see if it should extend its smoke-free areas in the city to beaches, parks, and open spaces. Although the survey showed those who responded were overwhelmingly opposed to banning smoking on beaches, the majority - both smokers and non-smokers - agreed that entrances to play parks (58.6%), schools (63.8%), and children's centres (64.3%) should become smoke-free.

As a result of the consultation, Brighton and Hove City Council's health and wellbeing board, will consider supporting the extension of smoke-free areas outside schools, play parks and children's centres, but dropped the idea for beaches and parks.

Public health officials could also be asked to work with restaurants and pubs to encourage smoke-free outdoor areas on a voluntary basis - as there seemed to be an appetite for this.

Cllr Daniel Yates, chair of the health and wellbeing board, said: 'I believe the measures that are being suggested are a common-sense approach and an appropriate reflection of the views of our residents and visitors.

'We're delighted with the level of response to this consultation.'

Campaigners welcomed the news that Brighton and Hove Council has dropped plans to ban smoking on beaches and in parks.