Concerns raised after fires spread across open ground on Peterborough's Embankment
Concerns have been voiced after fires were lit on open ground at Peterborough’s Embankment and which quickly spread.
The alarm has been raised after householders on Potter’s Way reported seeing a number of fires across the Embankment.
The incidents are understood to have taken place on the evening of July 12.,
Concerns have been heightened because the current heatwave has left the ground and hedgerows so dry that even a small fire can quickly spread causing dangers to people and property.
Councillor Shabina Qayyum, the leader of the Peterborough City Council said: “The fires on the Embankment behind the Potters Way Estate have been reported by me after concerns raised by residents.
"This will not be tolerated.
"Such actions place huge risk to residents and the Embankment biodiversity and wildlife.
"The police have been informed.”
Cllr Qayyum said: "If set alight deliberately it is shameful and the perpetrators will be caught and held to account.
"Moreover the fires have been closer to the resident area than previous which is alarming.
“I won’t rest until this is addressed properly now.”
Cllr Qayyum said it was known that part of Embankment was a ‘notorious’ hub of anti-social behaviour and other activities such as drug dealing.
She said: “Police have responded instantly to my call and will devise a plan to monitor and tackle this area.
“I’m hoping it will come to fruition.
She added: “Apart from the risks posed to residents we of course have the natural biodiversity and wildlife on the embankment that is placed at risk from such fires.”
The fire and police services have been contacted for a response.