Balloon ban does not go far enough say LibDems

A NEW policy aimed at reducing environmental damage caused by loose balloons in Torbay has been labelled a load of hot air.

Torbay Council is proposing a new ban on the releasing of balloons at events organised by the council.

The aim is to help keep the streets and beaches cleaner and provide greater protection for marine and land-based wildlife and habitats in Torbay.

According to the Marine Conservation Society the number of burst balloons and balloon pieces found on UK beaches has tripled in the last 10 years. These helium-filled balloon are released at publicity events.

Steve Darling, Lib Dem group leader, and his deputy Alan Faulkner say the ban at council events does not go far enough.

They will be asking the cabinet meeting next Tuesday to ban such balloon releases from all Torbay Council land.

Cllr Darling said: "Seven years ago, when there was a proposed balloon release at a Torbay Council Children's Services event, I was assured that balloon releases at council-run events would be stopped, so this policy does not seem to be anything new.

"If the Conservative-run council was serious about this issue they would lead from the front like Conservative-controlled Oxfordshire County Council have done and ban balloon releases on council-owned property and land.

"As with all environmental issues, the Conservatives say the right things but the actions fall short," he said.

"The policy is designed to minimise the impact of balloons on marine life such as dolphins and birds which are known to have been killed by balloons which have been released."

Cllr Faulkner said: "This is a real wasted opportunity. This halfway house is pointless."