Edinburgh Council bans smoking in play parks

Smoking is now banned in city play parks, car parks, courtyards and council premises, as the new “smoke free policy” comes into 
force.

The no-smoking policy has been updated. Picture: Greg Macvean (Posed by model)

The updated policy, which replaces the council’s control of smoking at work policy, aims to create a safer, healthier environment.

Restrictions will also apply to the use of e-cigarettes (vaporisers), which will be treated in the same way as cigarettes and other tobacco products.

Yesterday, Victoria Primary School pupil Cameron MacPherson, ten, helped launch the new policy with his prize-winning No Smoking sign, which has been attached to the railing at his school.

Cameron’s design won a competition run across the city’s schools, and will now be displayed in playgrounds and play parks around Edinburgh to deter smoking.

Council leader Andrew Burns, said: “The updated policy takes into account the effect passive smoking has on non-smokers, in particular children, who have no choice when it comes to protection from tobacco smoke.”

Simon Clark, director of the smokers’ group Forest, said: “Smoking in the open air presents no risk to anyone else’s health, and that includes small children.

“If the aim is to protect children from the sight of someone smoking there’s no evidence that children start smoking because they see a complete stranger lighting up.

“Most children start smoking because of peer pressure or because a family member smokes. Banning smoking in outdoor public places will make no difference whatsoever.”

He added: “What we’re seeing is a form of state-sponsored bullying. Prohibition has replaced education and a substantial minority of the population are being treated like lepers.”