METAL detectors, model aeroplanes and golf could be banned under plans to enforce killjoy bylaws aimed at stamping out antisocial behaviour.
Visitors to Wick Country Park, Tresco Way, Wickford, would also be prevented from flying kites in a dangerous manner, camping and lighting fires under the plans to introduce stringent rules to protect the park from activities which may cause a nuisance.
If the Basildon Council proposals are given the go ahead by the Government, council workers and police officers will have the power to issue fines to people flouting the rules.
The measures would also ban people from trading without permission and polluting the park’s five-acre lake and ponds.
Marcus Hotten, Basildon Council’s countryside manager, said: “While reports of antisocial behaviour at the park are relatively low, bylaws offer the council another way of ensuring vital assets, such as the Wick Country Park, can be enjoyed by all.”
The bylaws protect wildlife by banning people from killing, injuring or disturbing animals or fish – with the exception of fishing authorised by the council.
Some users believe the laws go to far. Helen Taylor, 43, of Swan Lane, Wickford, regularly visits the park with her three children.
She said: “I think some of the bylaws are good, like stopping people from camping or making a noise, but some of them seem a bit ridiculous. I don’t see how metal detectors or model aeroplanes would cause much trouble.”
People can give their views on the measures.
Copies are available to view at the main reception of the Basildon Centre in St Martin’s Square, until August 8.
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