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Sky Lanterns

Published: 14/12/2017

Flintshire County Council’s Cabinet will be asked to consider banning the release of sky lanterns from land owned by the Council when it meets later this month. There is increasing concern from a wide range of stakeholders about the possible impact of these lanterns and helium balloons on livestock and the environment. Particular concerns include the risks to animal welfare through ingestion of debris, litter in the countryside, the sea and on the coastline, risks to aviation and impacts on coastal rescue services. Flintshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning and Public Protection, Councillor Chris Bithell, said: “It is recommended that the Council introduce a ban on the release of sky lanterns from Council owned and controlled land. Once agreed, we will ensure that this ban is communicated widely to ensure that everyone is made aware of the risks associated with sky lanterns.”