HEALTH chiefs say they would welcome “anything” that would stop smoke harming young people as councils consider a parks ban.

Local authorities are getting the new power under the Localism Bill and the idea has reportedly been taken up by several councils nationally, especially over children’s play areas.

The power has not yet been discussed by any town or borough councils in Dorset or the New Forest – but health experts say there could be benefits.

A spokesperson for NHS Dorset said: “If parents smoke, children are three times more likely to take up the habit.

“Therefore we welcome anything that can be done to reduce exposure to young people.

“Work is being carried out regionally by SmokeFree South West and locally as part of the work of Dorset Tobacco Control Alliance to promote parks becoming smokefree, particularly focusing on play areas.”

Sophia Callaghan, a consultant in public health at NHS Bournemouth and Poole, said: “We have been working closely with local authorities and other partners to tackle smoking in public places, including parks, for some time.”

Cllr Lynda Price, cabinet member for health at Bournemouth Council, said she was sympathised with the idea but it was “pie in the sky.”

“It would be nigh on impossible to enforce,” she said, adding: “I think you can only go down the route of encouraging people to live healthy lifestyles and support that.”

Poole has previously considered banning smoking in enclosed children’s play areas but decided it was too difficult to enforce.

Cllr Peter Adams, cabinet member for health at Poole Council, said of a more wide ranging ban: “It’s not been discussed but my personal view is that it should be investigated.

“Whether I would support it, it’s difficult to say yet, but I am generally very anti-smoking.”