Package of motions falls at the vote
Not everyone loves a good fireworks display, a point at the heart of four motions put forward by Councillor Ashley Baxter, as well as the ensuing debate, at yesterday’s South Kesteven District Council meeting.
This is especially true if you happen to be a cat, dog or a vulnerable person – but where do you draw the line? And would a watered-down version of Bonfire Night be ideal for an already struggling hospitality industry?
Councillor Baxter argued that proper publication and advertising of any display happening in the district would allow residents to take precautions for their pets and any vulnerable people. On a long-term educational level, it was also proposed that promotion of a public awareness campaign would help to lessen the more negative impact of such events.
However, the next two points proved more devisive. Councillor Baxter felt anything over 90 decibels was too loud, and went as far to suggest that legislation should be introduced to prevent fireworks exceeding the limit being sold to the public. Letters to South Kesteven District MPs and the Minister of State would provide the means to achieve this.
“I have no problem with firework displays at all,” said Councillor Baxter, “but noisy fireworks are unnecessary.” He added: “It’s not so much public displays but the ones in back gardens.”
Local suppliers should also be encouraged to stock “quieter” fireworks for public display. Whether or not that would be good business is debatable, because if no one’s buying then they become something of a white elephant.
Despite much support from an animal-lover’s perspective, and a close-run vote, South Kesteven District Council decided to reject this package of motions, as it was decided that it already promotes information about safe and considerate use of fireworks.
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