Edinburgh is bracing for Bonfire Night, but this year, the city is taking an unprecedented stand against reckless firework displays. Council leader Jane Meagher has issued a direct appeal to residents: enjoy the celebrations, but only at officially sanctioned events.
The call comes after years of escalating disorder, with past Bonfire Nights marred by violence in neighborhoods like Niddrie and Sighthill. Fireworks were hurled at police, prompting the deployment of riot squads and leaving communities on edge.
This year’s strategy is multi-faceted. Authorities have secured pledges from nearly all local firework retailers to halt sales, aiming to cut off the supply fueling the chaos. Simultaneously, a network of “firework control zones” and newly expanded “dispersal zones” are being implemented across the city.
These zones aren’t outright bans, but carry significant consequences. Misuse of fireworks within these areas could result in fines up to £5,000 or even a six-month jail sentence. Despite last year’s implementation of control zones, misuse persisted, prompting the expansion to include areas like Corstorphine and Gracemount.
Beyond enforcement, a crucial element of the plan focuses on prevention and engagement. Authorities are actively working to clear potential fire hazards – fly-tipping and bulky waste – offering free collections to discourage deliberate fires. Community volunteers are joining council teams in this effort.
A powerful message is also being directed at parents. A joint letter from Police Scotland, the Council, the Fire and Rescue Service, and Lothian Buses urges them to prevent their children from participating in dangerous firework-related activities. Many perpetrators of past disturbances were minors.
Recognizing the need to understand the root causes, authorities recently hosted a youth summit, giving young people a platform to share their perspectives and contribute to a social media campaign promoting firework safety. Funding is also being directed towards alternative activities and youth engagement programs.
Meagher emphasizes that these measures are not a simple fix, but a comprehensive approach combining enforcement, prevention, and genuine community engagement. The goal is clear: to transform Bonfire Night from a night of fear and disruption into a safe and enjoyable occasion for all.
For those seeking a secure and spectacular display, sanctioned community events are planned in Craigmillar, Currie, and Balerno on November 5th, offering a responsible alternative to unsupervised celebrations.
