PLANS to ban the release of balloons and Chinese lanterns into East Lothian skies from council-owned land or property will be put before councillors for approval tomorrow.

A new policy which will prohibit helium balloons or the traditional lanterns being released at events which take place on council land or are sponsored, endorsed or licensed by the local authority is being put forward by officials.

If approved, East Lothian Council will join a number of local authorities in Scotland who have banned their use in recent years.

A report to councillors said that while the releases of balloons or lanterns make an impressive sight they can pose hazards to wildlife, livestock, humans and property.

It said they are on the increase, often for fundraising, commemorative or celebratory events and there was growing evidence of the damage they cause.

The proposed ban comes after the National Farmers Union of Scotland wrote to local authorities who had still to impose a ban urging them to do so.

The farmers union said the Chinese lanterns, which are constructed from paper with a wire or wooden frame and contain a lighted candle, are a proven fire risk and can be a danger to animals.

They pose a fire hazard to standing crops, stacks of hay and straw, woodland and farm buildings. If they land within crops grown to feed livestock, the frames risk being ingested causing great harm to livestock.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and Marine Conservation Society are among those calling for helium balloons to also be barred from being released.

They cite a range of wildlife which has been found with latex balloons in their digestive system including the Common Dolphin and Northern Fulmar, which are both found off the East Lothian coast.

Officials reported a regular volunteer beach cleaner in the county was not surprised to find 20 balloon remnants on one beach tide line after an easterly storm along with other litter remnants.

The councillors will be asked to support the ban under the Section 87 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 which states it is an offence

to throw down, drop or otherwise deposit, and then leave, litter.

Alternative suggestions to replace the popular release of Chinese lanterns or balloons, included suggesting flags, banners and pop-ups could create colourful events.

It also suggested balloon sculpture, virtual balloon races and balloon popping could replace releases.

The ban will be discussed at Haddington Town Hall during a meeting of East Lothian Council's Cabinet tomorrow morning.