Hampstead Heath has proved a popular place for drone users PIC: Andrew Turner

THE City of London is planning to draw up new guidelines to restrict the use of drones on Hampstead Heath.

Richard Gentry, from the City, which manages the Heath, said the open green space should be designated a “congested area”, which would lead to limitations on the use of the flying devices, which are often equipped with cameras that capture bird’s-eye photos and films. He was speaking at a meeting of the Heath’s Consultative Committee where the possibility of a new bye-law was discussed.

There would be no blanket ban put in place, said Mr Gentry, who is part of the Heath Constabulary, but people wanting to use drones on the would need to get permission from the Civil Aviation Authority. Any unlawful use would then become a matter for the Metropolitan Police, rather than the Heath Constabulary.

Mr Gentry said sensitive areas such as the nude sunbathing area at the Men’s Pond, and privacy issues around the Ladies’ Pond, would be protected. Earlier this year, the New Journal reported how the Heath Constabulary incorrectly tried to stop a drone user from flying on the Heath.

A City spokesman told the New Journal: “Our Constabulary actively manages drone use, taking into consideration public safety. We advise people using drones in line with Civil Aviation Authority regulations. However, the City is drafting a policy covering drone use on the Heath. The policy will be published once it has been considered by the Hampstead Heath Consultative Committee and Management Committee.”