Report of Executive Director (Neighbourhoods and Environment) attached

The Cabinet considered a report of the Executive Director (Neighbourhoods and Environment) responding to the Notice of Motion, submitted to Council on 17^th December 2019, concerning the use of fireworks.

Resolved:-

1.  That the Notice of Motion submitted to Council on 17^th December 2019, be noted.

2.  That, where possible, that organisers of all public firework displays within the Borough be encouraged to advertise them in advance of the event, allowing residents to take precautions for their animals and vulnerable people.

3.  That public awareness about the impact of fireworks on animal welfare and vulnerable people – including the precautions that can be taken to mitigate risks, be supported.

4.  That officers be requested to write to the UK Government urging them to introduce legislation to limit the maximum noise level of fireworks to 90 decibels for those sold to the public for private displays.

5.  That local suppliers of fireworks be encouraged to stock ‘quieter’ fireworks for public display.

Reasons for Decision

To respond to the Notice of Motion.

Other Options

None

Note: This is an Executive Function

Referred direct to Place Scrutiny Committee

Cabinet Member: Cllr Mulroney

Notice of Motion attached

Resolved:

That in accordance with Standing Order 8.4 the following Notice of Motion, be referred to the Cabinet:

‘Fireworks

Fireworks are used by people throughout the year to mark different events. While they can bring much enjoyment to some people, they can cause significant problems and fear for other people and animals.

They can be a source of fear and distress for many animals (including pet animals, farm livestock and wildlife). Animals affected not only suffer psychological distress but can also cause themselves injuries – sometimes very serious ones – as they attempt to run away or hide from the noise.

This Council therefore resolves that it should:

1. Require all public firework displays within the local authority boundaries to be advertised in advance of the event, allowing residents to take precautions for their animals and vulnerable people.

2. To actively promote a public awareness campaign about the impact of fireworks on animal welfare and vulnerable people – including the precautions that can be taken to mitigate risks.

3. To write to the UK Government urging them to introduce legislation to limit the maximum noise level of fireworks to 90dB for those sold to the public for private displays.

4. To encourage local suppliers of fireworks to stock ‘quieter’ fireworks for public display.’

Proposed by: Cllr Cox

Seconded by: Cllr Buck