Councillor Leng to move:

This Council notes that:

Although the majority of people use fireworks in a responsible manner – bringing a great deal of enjoyment to people in the celebration of many events and festivities – there remains an issue with irresponsible use across the country.

This Council believes that:

• The anti-social behaviour caused by inappropriate use of fireworks is a significant problem for communities in Reading and has an especially profound impact for certain groups of people, including children and older people.

• Sensible and simple actions can be taken by all firework users to ensure the minimisation of distress and disruption upon people and animals.

Consequently, this Council resolves to:

• Require all public firework displays within the local authority boundaries to be advertised in advance of the event.

• 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.

• Request that the Leader of the Council write to the Secretary of State, urging them to introduce legislation to limit the maximum noise level of fireworks to 90dB for those sold to the public for private displays.

• Encourage local suppliers of fireworks to stock ‘quieter’ fireworks for public display.

Continue, and promote, the excellent work of the Council’s Regulatory Services team in tackling the illicit sale of fireworks across the Borough.

Pursuant to Notice, the following motion was moved by Councillor Leng and seconded by Councillor Emberson and CARRIED:

Resolved –

This Council notes that:

Although the majority of people use fireworks in a responsible manner – bringing a great deal of enjoyment to people in the celebration of many events and festivities – there remains an issue with irresponsible use across the country.

This Council believes that:

·       The anti-social behaviour caused by inappropriate use of fireworks is a significant problem for communities in Reading and has an especially profound impact for certain groups of people, including children and older people.

·       Sensible and simple actions can be taken by all firework users to ensure the minimisation of distress and disruption upon people and animals.

Consequently, this Council resolves to:

·       Require all public firework displays within the local authority boundaries to be advertised in advance of the event.

·       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.

·       Request that the Leader of the Council write to the Secretary of State, urging them to introduce legislation to limit the maximum noise level of fireworks to 90dB for those sold to the public for private displays.

·       Encourage local suppliers of fireworks to stock ‘quieter’ fireworks for public display.

Continue, and promote, the excellent work of the Council’s Regulatory Services team in tackling the illicit sale of fireworks across the Borough.