Paisley councillors have said they are “inundated” with complaints about fireworks and the “detrimental impact” they can have on pets after the opening of the application process for control zones.
People and community groups have been encouraged to participate in the process, which could see specific geographical areas become locations where it is deemed illegal to use fireworks on a private domestic property.
The aim of a zone is to reduce the social harms that can be caused by fireworks, whether on animal welfare, vulnerable groups or the environment. However, to have legal force they must be evidenced, proportionate and subject to robust consultation.
Renfrewshire Council is now accepting applications, which can be submitted by a community of residents (with at least 25 signatures), a welfare group, a community council or a local partnership area, ahead of Bonfire Night later this year.
Councillor Eddie Devine, who represents Paisley Southeast, said: “I would encourage people to participate in this process if they can, because we are inundated with complaints – we honestly get so many – about fireworks and the detrimental effect they can have on their pets.
“Some of the animals are absolutely terrified and what they go through is dreadful, so there’s an opportunity here for groups and communities who might have experienced this to engage in this exercise.”
Once the application period closes at the end of February, a review group consisting of relevant partner agencies will meet in March to review the applications and decide whether they are viable and enforceable.
Before any decision is made to designate a firework control zone, the council will publish a detailed proposal. It will then consult with those who live or work in the proposed zone, other members of the community and anyone that might have a connection with it.
This stage will take eight to 12 weeks and will run between late April and late July. After consultation, a final proposal must be published to include updates from that process.
If the consultation results in a zone being supported, there is a minimum period of 60 days notice before that can come into effect. This means any finalised and agreed proposals for firework control zones will be published by August 15 to allow them to come into force by October 15.
Councillor Stephen Burns, an SNP representative for Paisley Southwest, said: “The amount of complaints you get about fireworks, particularly in relation to people’s pets, is incredible. The effect they have can be a real nuisance for people and their cats and dogs.
“I would definitely encourage people take part and submit their comments as part of this process. It means their voices can be heard.”
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