Groups are being urged to act responsibly in open public spaces as there have been a surge of damages and littering reported due to large gatherings, parties, and barbecues.

Tracey Smart, who lives near Croxley Common Moor, says the increase of flouters leaving litter behind and damaging the moor has made her increasingly anxious during the lockdown period.

She has been routinely walking along the moor as a therapeutic part of her day during lockdown, but says she regularly comes across shocking actions that damages the moor or puts other lives at risk.

On May 15, she spotted a fire on her walk caused by an abandoned barbecue after a large gathering. This was before Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that groups of six can meet in outdoor spaces.

She explained that there were cows surrounding the fire “likely for warmth” and she attempted to diffuse the fire as much she could before the “brilliant” fire services arrived.

She said: “If it got any bigger, I don’t think it would have been easy to put out.”

A large patch of burnt grass was left behind after the fire was extinguished.

Watford Observer:

After the incident and a fire later broke out in Bradshaw Road on May 31, Ms Smart has become increasingly concerned that people breaking lockdown restrictions may cause a disaster at the moor.

She said: “Something needs to be done after the extremely hot weather and dry conditions to stop people doing this even though the sign states BBQs are not allowed.

“A warden is necessary – the police are already busy; people are coming out of lockdown after months of being cooped up and acting with complete disregard to laws and social responsibility.”

Since the fire, she has spotted many other large gatherings not social distancing and having more barbecues.

She said: “I think my life feels like it has been on lockdown for years, you go out for half an hour to clear your head but there’s always something you come across that causes anxiety - it affects my life quite a lot.”

However, she added that the issue has not just been during lockdown, but whenever sunny weather occurs.

After a cool-down period last week, the weather is expected to reach 22°C this weekend.

She added: “People are sick to death of it.

“My main concern is that because of the entrance, it could be difficult for emergency services to get in and intervene if an incident happens.”

A spokesperson from Three Rivers District Council said: “Over the past few weeks, Three Rivers has experienced the same issues as other areas, with people wanting to enjoy the sunshine and meet friends.

“Unfortunately, a number of people are ignoring social distancing and other Government rules designed to keep us all safer.

“We understand that the Police were called last Wednesday night to a gathering on the Moor, and Three Rivers staff cleared up litter and other debris from the site on Thursday morning.”

The council explained that anyone with concerns of gatherings should contact police.

Cllr Sara Bedford, leader of the Council, said, “I totally understand that residents have wanted to enjoy the recent good weather by meeting up with friends at our open spaces.

“However, it is vital that everyone continues to respect social distancing, not only for their own sake but also for our more vulnerable residents.

“I would also ask that those who are enjoying some of our beautiful parks and green spaces respect the area and its wildlife. Please do not light fires and make sure that you take all your rubbish home with you.”

Now Cllr Phil Williams, the leader member for Environmental Services and Sustainability, is warning for people to not have any barbecues in public spaces and to be aware of littering.

He said: “The Grounds Maintenance team is working hard to keep all these green spaces clean, tidy and empty the bins regularly. The litter being left behind may affect the safety of our staff and it can also damage the wildlife and plant life that we want to protect.

“Please do not light any BBQs or leave litter on the ground. Use the bins provided and if full take your rubbish home with you. With your help, we can keep these places litter-free, ready for the next set of visitors to also enjoy the clean, welcoming environment.”