THE use of Chinese-style paper sky lanterns could be banned on all Hampshire County Council-owned land in the future.

The candle-powered sky lights, which act as mini hot air balloons, have been a popular way to mark family celebrations and events over the last few years.

But the council is responding to calls from the RSPCA and other organisations, concerned about the practice.

Back in 2011, the council unanimously passed a motion calling on the Government to ban the use of sky lanterns.

And the council urged the district councils across the county to ban the sale or use of sky lanterns when issuing premises licences for open-air events.

Since then, more and more organisations are raising concerns about the sky lanterns, claiming they are hazardous to livestock, property and the environment.

The leader of Hampshire County Council Roy Perry said: “We’ve been concerned about the safety of sky lanterns and the potential damage they can cause for some time and debated the matter three years ago.

“As well as their impact on the environment, livestock and animals including littering on land and at sea, they are a potential hazard to air traffic, coastal shipping and consumer safety.

“Given these concerns, and in the absence of a government ban, at my decision day as executive member for policy and resources on September 26 I will be considering a ban on their use on all county council-owned property.

“I will also be considering writing to schools urging them to consider imposing a similar ban.”