Cotswold District Council is urging residents not to light bonfires following a large increase in the number of burning complaints.

The council is calling on residents to be more considerate of those with respiratory conditions and people in self-isolation.

Cllr Andrew Doherty, cabinet member for environment, said: “We understand these are difficult and challenging times for us all. Whether you are adjusting to life and work at home, isolating yourself or looking after loved ones who are isolating.

“Most of us are spending more time at home and while having bonfires can be tempting, it carries risks to vulnerable members of our communities. Bonfires cause issues for your neighbours, especially those with respiratory problems, people who are shielding themselves from COVID-19 or anyone who may have contracted the virus.

“COVID-19 attacks the respiratory system so I would like to ask all of our residents here in the Cotswolds to please refrain from lighting fires which may affect vulnerable people while lockdowns continue.”

“Please be considerate of your neighbours and use alternatives such as composting or storing any waste until government restrictions are lifted. We know this isn't an ideal solution for everyone but these are not ideal times.

"You can put most of your garden waste to use - a successful compost heap needs lots of brown material as well as green. Don’t burn it, use prunings and dry material to improve your compost heap.”

The council's environmental and regulatory services are required to investigate bonfire complaints. If considered a waste offence or statutory nuisance - interfering with the use or enjoyment of a home or likely to injure health - it may result in enforcement action and a fine for non-compliance.

Garden waste collections were suspended last month after staff shortages left the council without enough drivers. 

Leader of the opposition Conservative Group on Cotswold District Council, Richard Morgan, has called for garden waste collections to be reintroduced.

“Whilst we support the request for residents who live in close proximity to other people not to light garden fires and to be as considerate as possible to their neighbours, we really need clarity on when Cotswold District Council will recommence garden waste collections.

"During the lockdown period, many people have turned to their gardens, and aided by the fantastic sunshine, these outdoor spaces have supplied a vital form of respite from the bad news.

"We would urge CDC to reinstate green bin collections as soon as possible so people can continue to enjoy their outdoor space," he said.