Blyth Town Council’s Environment Committee has unanimously agreed to a trial period allowing year-round allotment fires, with specific conditions in place. The decision follows a request from the Blyth Smallholdings and Allotment Association (BSHAA) on behalf of their members.

Previously, fires on allotments were restricted to between 01 October to 31 March, but under the new trial, tenants will be permitted to burn allotment waste throughout the year—though they must adhere to strict guidelines. These include ensuring fires are contained, only burning appropriate materials, and being mindful and respectful of nearby residents. Enforcement officers will continue monitoring to prevent nuisance fires, with potential penalties for violations.

While the National Allotment Society recommends composting over burning to minimise environmental impact, the committee acknowledged that materials, such as brambles and rotten wood, are harder to compost. To balance concerns, tenants are encouraged to use composting as an alternative whenever possible. Composting can enrich the soil with essential nutrients, creating healthier plants and reducing the need for chemical fertilisers.

The council will evaluate the impact of this policy change before making a permanent decision. In the meantime, tenants are urged to act responsibly, ensuring their fires do not cause disruption while making use of composting to reduce waste sustainably.