(i)         to request that organisers of all public firework displays within Torbay advertise them in advance of the event, allowing residents to take precautions for their animals and vulnerable people;

(ii)        to support public awareness about the impact of fireworks on animal welfare and vulnerable people – including the precautions that can be taken to mitigate risks;

(iii)       to write to the UK Government urging them to introduce legislation to limit the maximum noise level of fireworks to 90 decibels for those sold to the public for private displays; and

(iv)       to encourage local suppliers of fireworks to stock ‘quieter’ fireworks for public display.

To support the Motion in respect of action to reduce the impact of fireworks.

None

This decision will come into force and may be implemented on Monday, 25 November 2019 unless the call-in procedure is triggered (as set out in Standing Orders in relation to Overview and Scrutiny).

The Cabinet considered a motion in relation to local radio cuts, notice of which was given in accordance with Standing Order A14.

Councillor Long proposed and Councillor Cowell seconded a motion, as set out below which was agreed unanimously by the Cabinet:

Fireworks are used by people throughout the year to mark different events.  Whilst they can bring much enjoyment to some people, they can cause significant problems and fear for other people and animals.  Vulnerable people can become confused and disorientated by the noise.  They can be a source of fear and distress for many animals (including pets, farm livestock and wildlife).  Animals affected not only suffer psychological distress but can also cause themselves injuries, sometimes very serious ones, as they attempt to run away or hide from the noise. 

Cabinet resolves:

(i)         to request that organisers of all public firework displays within Torbay advertise them in advance of the event, allowing residents to take precautions for their animals and vulnerable people;

(ii)        to support public awareness about the impact of fireworks on animal welfare and vulnerable people – including the precautions that can be taken to mitigate risks;

(iii)       to write to the UK Government urging them to introduce legislation to limit the maximum noise level of fireworks to 90 decibels for those sold to the public for private displays; and

(iv)       to encourage local suppliers of fireworks to stock ‘quieter’ fireworks for public

None