Firework Frustration

5.20.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 6th Dec 2004

Despite the new regulations this year restricting the hours for the use of fireworks and the noise of bangers, many residents remain concerned that there was serious, anti social noise throughout November because of Bonfire Night and, then, Diwali and are worried that New Year will see a repeat. A delegation from the Woodlawn Estate in Whitton/Heathfield is pressing Vincent Cable MP to seek a tightening up of the legislative regulations in Parliament.

Vincent Cable has written to the Council, the police and the Government for an assessment of how the regulations operated this year and what enforcement action was taken against those using fireworks in an antisocial manner: "Many people I have spoken to felt there was some improvement this year but others - particularly families with young children, elderly people and dog owners - reported continued explosions around 12am to 1am a week or so either side of Diwali and some very powerful explosions from air bombs.

"I was closely involved in supporting the new legislation which tries to strike a balance between giving people freedom of entertainment and the concerns of those alarmed by excessive noise."

Note to Editors:

Contact - Ronnie Knight - ronniew.knight@btinternet.com