Clydesdale’s MSP is asking for the introduction of firework control zones to be considered across her constituency following concerns raised by local residents.
Mairi McAllan has written to South Lanarkshire Council describing the time around this year’s Bonfire Night as “another difficult period for many impacted by the misuse of fireworks” and asking for official discussions with the community on bringing in restrictions using new legislation.
The recently-introduced law – used this year in four Edinburgh neighbourhoods – allows local authorities to introduce temporary restrictions around November 5, making it an offence to set off fireworks anywhere within specifically-designated areas after a community request and consultation process.
She was prompted to ask the council about beginning discussions on imposing the zones after being approached throughout the past month by residents “calling for action to address the impact and harm caused by misuse of fireworks”.
The MSP wrote: “The misuse of fireworks and related anti-social behaviour has seen a number of constituents contact my office expressing their frustrations and describing the impact which fireworks have had on their community, pets and local emergency services.
“I know from representations by constituents that many are keen to see the power for local authorities to establish firework control zones deployed – to that end, I should like to invite South Lanarkshire Council, in liaison with our emergency services and communities, to open discussions on this matter and determine where it may be appropriate for zones to be established in Clydesdale.”
Ms McAllan added: “My office stands ready and would be pleased to help facilitate such discussions”, and she has also asked council officials whether any applications have already been received for imposition of the restricted zones.
She is the second local parliamentarian to ask the local authority to look into the issue, with Rutherglen counterpart Clare Haughey also contacting the council ahead of this year’s November 5 events to highlight similar concerns from constituents.
Council officials responded that they have “no current plans” to introduce firework control zones but are “open to discussions” with interested parties, with a spokesperson telling Lanarkshire Live: “We are aware of the legislation and the potential for its use within South Lanarkshire.
“Scottish Fire and Rescue Service will report any notable issues with firework use to the Safer South Lanarkshire board in the first quarter of 2025 as part of its regular monitoring.
“We are open to discussions with any communities, or stakeholder partners such as the fire service or Police Scotland, that are interested in firework control zones being brought forward for future years.”
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