Call for public fireworks displays in Peterborough to be advertised in advance to allow for ‘precautions’

City councillors will vote on a motion proposed by Lib Dem member for Fletton & Stanground Cllr Christian Hogg at Wednesday’s Full Council meeting.

The motion calls on the council to:

. Encourage public firework displays within the Peterborough area to be advertised in advance of the event (including on a new webpage) to allow residents to take precautions for people in their care, and pets

.Actively promote a public awareness campaign about the impact of fireworks on animal welfare and vulnerable people

. Encourage local suppliers of fireworks to separate ‘quieter’ fireworks from the loud ones, with different coloured stickers for both

. Encourage local suppliers to apply Challenge 25 policies in the same way alcohol sales are conducted

. Write to the Government urging it to introduce legislation to limit the maximum noise level of fireworks to 90dB for those sold to the public for private displays.

The use of fireworks has ignited a public debate in recent weeks with residents celebrating Bonfire Night and Diwali.


While some have enjoyed the night-time events, others who have pets or young children have found the fireworks have caused issues.


Peterborough MP Paul Bristow said he has received hundreds of emails and letters about the issue and set up a survey on social media to hear residents’ views.


Of the 722 people who replied, 572 said they wanted to see tighter rules on when fireworks can be set off.


Moreover, 531 residents said fireworks should be banned from being set off other than on certain days of the year such as Bonfire Night and New Years Day, while just under half said they would support a complete ban on fireworks.

Cllr Hogg said: “The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals says the law is failing. It does not prevent or sufficiently reduce the risk of fireworks causing distress, injury, or anxiety to people, as well as death, injury or distress to animals.”