Glasgow City Council is exploring the possibility of implementing a city-wide ban on fireworks. This consideration follows the introduction of the first firework control zone (FCZ) in Pollokshields.
Why Glasgow Is Considering a City-Wide Firework Ban
The decision to look into a city-wide ban stems from the persistent firework-related antisocial behavior in specific areas, notably Pollokshields. A council panel reviewed 13 applications for firework control zones, with Pollokshields being a significant focal point due to its history of such issues.
The use of fireworks, excluding sparklers, is banned in Pollokshields from November 1 to November 10, covering both public and private spaces like gardens. This initiative aims to mitigate the risks and disturbances caused by fireworks during these peak times.
Glasgow City Council will launch a six-week public consultation to discuss the potential for a city-wide ban. The goal is to gather public opinion and assess the feasibility and effectiveness of expanding the control measures.
Community Reactions and Responses
Councilor Elaine McSporran, Glasgow City Council’s firework safety champion, emphasized the importance of community support in this initiative. She noted that previous incidents in Pollokshields had prompted a multi-agency approach, which has shown some improvements but still falls short of desired outcomes.
“Pollokshields has been the scene of some terrible firework-related antisocial behavior in previous years. A new multi-agency approach has improved the situation recently, but it is still not where we want it to be,” McSporran stated.
Chief Inspector Jordan Dickson of Police Scotland also highlighted the role of multiple stakeholders, including Police Scotland, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), and the Glasgow City Council, in addressing the safety concerns associated with fireworks.
Group Commander Craig Campbell from the SFRS said, “Bonfire Night is one of the busiest nights of the year for our crews, and we will continue to work tirelessly to reduce antisocial behavior in the run-up to and during the event. As part of this work, over the coming weeks across the city of Glasgow, our staff will visit young people in schools to talk to them directly about the dangers of the misuse of fireworks.”
The pilot control zone in Pollokshields serves as a test for the new legislation, with hopes that it will bring much-needed relief to residents. The council encourages the public to participate in the consultation process starting Tuesday, providing a platform for citizens to voice their opinions on the proposed city-wide FCZ.
Pollokshields has long been a hotspot for firework-related disturbances, and the new FCZ is expected to bring some respite to the area’s residents. However, expanding this measure across the city will require careful consideration of public feedback and the effectiveness of the initial zone in Pollokshields.
Chief Inspector Jordan Dickson stated, “As a statutory consultee, Greater Glasgow Police Division provided analytical data to allow informed assessment by Glasgow City Council. Our primary focus is keeping the public, police, emergency personnel, and wider partners safe, and to ensure those responsible for the criminal and antisocial use of fireworks are brought to account.”
With Bonfire Night approaching, the council and its partners are stepping up efforts to ensure a safer environment across Glasgow. The ongoing public consultation will play a crucial role in determining the future of firework regulations in the city.
In the meantime, residents of Pollokshields are hopeful that the newly implemented FCZ will lead to a significant reduction in firework-related disturbances. The success of this pilot initiative could pave the way for broader application across Glasgow, making the city a safer place for everyone during firework season.
As Glasgow tests its new legislation, the council and its partners remain committed to keeping the public safe and holding those responsible for misuse accountable.
