Councillors unanimously back tighter local firework controls – and will lobby Welsh Government

Wrexham councillors have unanimously backed a motion to introduce tighter controls on the use of fireworks in the county borough.

The motion, which was signed by members of the Wrexham Independent Group, was approved during last night’s Full Council meeting.

As part of the motion councillors agreed to require all public firework displays within the local authority boundaries to be advertised in advance of the event, allowing residents to take precautions for their animals and vulnerable people.

It also included lobbying the Welsh and national governments for tighter controls on the use of fireworks, encouraging local suppliers of fireworks to stock ‘quieter’ fireworks for public displays and actively promoting 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

Cllr David A Bithell, leader of the Wrexham Independent Group, said the motion had been put forward after concerns had been raised by “many constituents” on the use of fireworks and the impacts they can have on vulnerable people and animals.

He added that the RSPCA have seen an increase in firework related calls each year between October and January.

Cllr David Griffiths said he welcomed the motion before councillors but asked if an event with fireworks could be advertised a minimum of three weeks beforehand to help make residents aware.

It was agreed the timescale would be added into the first section of the motion.

Speaking after the meeting, Cllr David A Bithell Leader of Wrexham Independent Group said he was delighted that all members of the council supported our motion.

He added: “This decision supports the RSPCA’s Bang out of Order Campaign by making a positive step in the right direction to control fireworks and to raise the awareness across the county borough.”

RSPCA Cymru public affairs adviser Lewis Clark said: “We are delighted that Wrexham County Borough Council has backed a series of measures to mitigate the risk fireworks can pose to animals and their welfare.

“The RSPCA is inundated with calls each year about welfare concerns for animals connected to fireworks. But measures like those adopted by Wrexham councillors can make a real difference.

“Preparedness is so important and better advertising of displays and a public awareness campaign could make all the difference in ensuring people know what steps to take to keep pets and other animals safe, and when.

“By lobbying the Welsh and UK governments, too, for action, we hope we can make Wales a safer place for animals when fireworks are being set off; encouraging responsible use, better information and the promotion of lower-noise alternatives.

“Sadly, we know many pets and other animals struggle with firework phobia – but the RSPCA website is full of advice to help their animals through firework season, including building a safe den, finding hiding places for cats or closing windows and curtains to help soundproof against the noise.

“This move from Wrexham County Borough Council follows the decision by the council to no longer grant licences to anyone wishing to give pets away as prizes, on Council owned land.

“The RSPCA is thrilled to see these positive steps being taken by the Council and hopes other local authorities across Wales will take similar ones in the name of animal welfare. ”