In recent years, Pendle has witnessed a concerning trend related to the use of fireworks, particularly during late-night celebrations. Incidents of police, fire crews, and paramedics being attacked by groups throwing fireworks in 2021 brought significant attention to the issue. These events not only raised alarms about public safety but also highlighted the broader implications of firework use in residential areas. As the community gears up for annual celebrations such as bonfire night, Pendle Council has recognized the urgent need to address the disturbances caused by fireworks, particularly those set off late at night.
At a recent full council meeting, a motion introduced by Pendle True Independent Councillor Yasser Iqbal drew attention to the ongoing problems posed by fireworks in certain areas, notably Brierfield and Nelson. Iqbal pointed out that while he understood and appreciated the enjoyment that fireworks can bring during legal celebrations, the disturbances caused by fireworks being set off at inappropriate hours—sometimes as late as midnight or even 1:30 a.m.—were unacceptable. He expressed his frustration at the frequency of such incidents and emphasized that these late-night explosions were a significant concern for many residents, particularly those with young children or pets. As a father, Iqbal shared his personal experience, noting that the late-night fireworks were disruptive to family life and caused undue stress.
The council meeting highlighted a growing consensus among council members regarding the need for immediate action. Iqbal’s concerns resonated with his fellow councillors, many of whom had also received complaints from constituents about the late-night disturbances. He questioned the rationale behind allowing fireworks to be set off at such late hours, particularly in the context of weddings and other celebrations. He suggested that there might be a need for government intervention to regulate the use of fireworks more effectively. However, he acknowledged that local authorities could take steps in collaboration with police and community leaders to discourage the misuse of fireworks. Despite the local police’s efforts to monitor and address the situation, Iqbal emphasized that these measures were not sufficient to resolve the issue fully.
Councillor Dorothy Lord, representing the Liberal Democrats, voiced her support for Iqbal’s motion. She admitted that while she did not have a concrete solution to propose, it was clear that something needed to change. Lord raised an important point about the challenges faced by law enforcement, noting that police officers had expressed frustration about their inability to identify those responsible for the disturbances. The anonymity of the individuals setting off fireworks made it challenging for police to take action and hold offenders accountable, further complicating the situation. This sentiment was echoed by Councillor Nadeem Ahmed, who reiterated the need for a multi-agency approach to tackle the problem. Ahmed highlighted the plight of residents, particularly those caring for vulnerable individuals, such as a mother with a disabled child who was consistently disrupted by late-night fireworks.
The emotional impact of late-night fireworks on families and pets was a central theme in the discussion. Ahmed shared a poignant story of a resident whose child would wake up in fear at the sound of fireworks, unable to return to sleep. This anecdote underscored the distress that fireworks could cause, not only for young children but also for pets who are often frightened by loud noises. As bonfire night approached, council members recognized that fireworks would become more readily available, raising concerns about the potential for increased disturbances. The council’s awareness of the situation indicated that they were not only reacting to past incidents but also proactively seeking ways to manage future celebrations and the associated risks.
Councillor Brian Newman also chimed in on the matter, suggesting that the introduction of silent fireworks could be a viable solution to the problem. He argued that these alternatives would minimize the adverse effects of traditional fireworks while still allowing people to enjoy celebrations. This idea sparked further discussion among council members about the need for more effective regulations governing the use of fireworks, particularly concerning the times during which they could be discharged.
Independent Councillor Asjad Mahmood, the leader of the council, provided an overview of the ongoing efforts to address the issues surrounding fireworks. He explained that the council had been collaborating with local police and schools to implement educational programs about the safe use of fireworks. While these initiatives had not eradicated all problems, Mahmood noted that they had been successful in significantly reducing the violent incidents that had plagued bonfire night celebrations in previous years. One such initiative, the Bright Sparks project, included measures such as increased surveillance through CCTV to deter misuse and monitor firework activity.
Mahmood acknowledged that controlling the sale of fireworks posed a challenge, especially with the prevalence of illegal imports from outside the borough. He stressed the importance of community involvement in addressing anti-social behavior and encouraged residents to report any suspicious activity related to fireworks. The council’s emphasis on community cooperation highlighted a broader strategy aimed at fostering a sense of shared responsibility among residents to help maintain public safety.
The discussion among councillors reflected a growing recognition of the complexities surrounding firework use. While many residents enjoyed fireworks as part of cultural and celebratory practices, there was an increasing acknowledgment of the need to balance these celebrations with the well-being of the community. Councillor Martyn Stone added his support for the call to action, reinforcing the notion that fireworks should not be a divisive issue. He called for a united front among councillors to send a clear message to residents about the council’s commitment to addressing their concerns.
As bonfire night approached, the urgency of the situation became more apparent. The combination of increased firework sales and the potential for anti-social behavior posed a significant challenge for local authorities. Councillors recognized the need to communicate effectively with the public, providing information on acceptable firework use and encouraging responsible behavior. They also discussed the possibility of implementing community outreach programs aimed at raising awareness about the negative impacts of late-night fireworks, particularly for families and vulnerable individuals.
The potential for community-led initiatives to tackle the firework issue emerged as a significant theme during the council meeting. By engaging residents in discussions about firework safety and responsible use, the council could foster a sense of ownership among the community. Such initiatives could include educational workshops, informational campaigns, and local partnerships with schools and community organizations. By empowering residents to take an active role in addressing the issue, the council could enhance community cohesion and support a safer environment during celebrations.
As the council members wrapped up their discussion, it was evident that the issue of fireworks in Pendle extended beyond mere noise complaints. It encompassed broader concerns about public safety, community well-being, and the need for responsible celebrations. The dialogue among councillors reflected a commitment to finding solutions that respected the traditions of fireworks while prioritizing the health and safety of residents. The challenges posed by fireworks in Pendle serve as a reminder of the importance of community collaboration in addressing complex social issues. As local authorities continue to navigate these challenges, the hope remains that a balanced approach can be achieved, allowing residents to enjoy festive celebrations while minimizing disturbances and ensuring a safe environment for all.
Ultimately, the council’s proactive stance signals a recognition that the ongoing challenges related to fireworks require a comprehensive and collaborative approach. By fostering dialogue among council members, law enforcement, and the community, Pendle can work toward solutions that address the concerns of residents while preserving the joy and excitement that celebrations can bring. As bonfire night and other festive occasions draw near, the council’s efforts to engage the community and promote responsible fireworks use will be critical in shaping a safer and more harmonious environment for all residents of Pendle.