But councillors agreed to take no action on the policy, which included banning smoking in all children’s playgrounds, around all council playing fields, sporting grounds and at outdoor sporting facilities, on all land used for alfresco dining, at all events run or sponsored by council, within 10 metres of council owned building entrances, in all bush land, parks, reserves and public plazas, in all enclosed council car parks and at all covered bus stops and taxi ranks.

It was planned in the policy that those caught smoking in these areas would be fined $100.

Councillor Darrell Barnes moved the motion that no action be taken.

“It is just nonsense to try and police something like this,” Cr Barnes said.

“It is impossible.

“Plus the fact that the only public response we got to the policy was from an alfresco dining restaurant asking us to not implement it shows that it is not an issue.”

Other councillors also agreed that no action should be taken.

But mayor Barry Johnston said having signs and the ban would refrain people from smoking around children.

“We do need to provide a safe place for them because passive smoking is a lot worse for you,” Cr Johnston said.

“There should be a smoke free area for children to give them protection in playgrounds and public parks.

“I am surprised it has been agreed to take no action.”