Reducing fireworks nuisance in residential areas through local control zones

Lib Dems persuaded Solihull Council to back this motion.

1. A draft motion on “No to mandatory ID cards” can be seen here Council Motion: Opposing Labour’s Digital ID Scheme.

2. Lib Dems persuaded Solihull Council to back this motion on Reducing Fireworks Nuisance in Residential Areas through Local Control Zones – see the motion below:

This Council notes:

  • The increasing public concern over late-night fireworks in residential areas, particularly outside traditional celebration periods such as Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve, Diwali, and Chinese New Year.
  • The distress caused to vulnerable residents, including children, older people, veterans, and neurodivergent individuals, as well as the impact on pets and wildlife.
  • The disruption to residents’ sleep, especially for shift workers, families with young children, and those with health conditions exacerbated by sleep disturbance.
  • The precedent set by the Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Act 2022, which empowers local authorities to designate firework control zones and restrict usage outside permitted hours.

This Council believes:

  • That residents have a right to peaceful enjoyment of their homes, and that firework use should be proportionate, predictable, and respectful of community wellbeing.
  • That unregulated late-night fireworks undermine public health by disturbing sleep and increasing stress, particularly in densely populated areas.
  • That local authorities should have greater powers to regulate firework use in sensitive areas and at unsociable hours.

This Council RESOLVES to:

  • (i) Request Government Action:Write to the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, urging them to introduce legislation enabling English councils to designate fireworks control zones, modelled on Scottish provisions.
  • (ii) Promote Responsible Use:Work with retailers, schools, and community organisations to raise awareness of the impact of fireworks and encourage responsible use, including promotion of silent or low-noise alternatives.
  • (iii) Support Enforcement: Collaborate with West Midlands Police to monitor and report misuse and explore options for local enforcement under existing nuisance and antisocial behaviour powers. Birmingham are running a petition too - Stop the Fireworks Free-for-All in Birmingham - Birmingham Liberal Democrats