Shaun Davies MP has welcomed the Governments largest review into fireworks legislation, after calling for action to tackle the anti-social use of them.
Since getting elected, Shaun has heard from local residents who have been sharing their concerns about anti-social fireworks use, which has caused distress to local veterans, disrupted working people and terrified pets and young children. Shaun supports the 12-week consultation which is now live and is asking to hear directly from Telford residents about the change they want to see.
Through this review, families, children and their pets will be able to go about their day with less disturbance, whilst still ensuring residents can enjoy fireworks safely and as part of the community and cultural celebrations they play a part in.
This review is asking respondents to comment on:
- Restricting the availability of the noisiest fireworks, with louder products only being available to professional displays,
- Increasing the number of products that are banned due to unacceptable risk to communities, under Regulation 33 of the Pyrotechnic Articles (Safety) Regulations 2015
- Reviewing the wider regulatory framework for fireworks classified as ‘lower risk’, to ensure that the law accurately reflects the different levels of risk that they pose.
This action comes alongside the wider steps that the Government is taking to tackle anti-social behaviour, bring residents together and make communities safer.
Shaun commented: “I’ve heard from so many people across Telford about the problems caused by extremely loud fireworks being set off at all hours of the day and night. It’s upsetting for families, stressful for pets, and can make life miserable for whole neighbourhoods. That’s why I’m really pleased this review is taking place. I’d encourage everyone to take part and have their say. I’ve also been in touch with residents who’ve previously contacted me about this issue to make sure Telford’s experiences are heard.
“Fireworks, when used responsibly, can be a brilliant way to celebrate. We want organised, licensed public displays that bring communities together to continue. But there’s a strong case for restricting the sale of the loudest fireworks to those displays, rather than allowing them to be bought and misused by a small minority.”
