The government should ban the noisiest of fireworks that are sold to the public, Manchester councillors have said, as they look to introduce stricter rules on pyrotechnics in the city.
Some local councillors also say they want to see more advertising for public displays within the local authority, allowing residents to take further precautions for their pets and vulnerable people.
A motion proposing the stricter rules is set to be discussed in next week’s full council meeting.
It says: “Fireworks are used by people throughout the year to mark different events. While they can bring much enjoyment to some people, they can cause significant problems and fear for other people and animals.”
The proposal has been put forward by West Didsbury councillor, Liberal Democrat Greg Stanton, and supported by Labour councillors representing East Didsbury, Charlestown, Rusholme, Baguley and Gorton.
It says that local suppliers should be encouraged to stock quieter fireworks for private displays.
And town hall bosses should write to the government, urging them to introduce legislation which would limit the maximum noise level of fireworks sold to the public for private displays, it argues.
Current legislation prohibits the sale of fireworks over 120 decibels. But the council motion says that to be brought down to 90 dB.
It also calls for a public awareness campaign about the impact of fireworks on animal welfare and vulnerable people – including the precautions that can be taken to mitigate risks.
And it says that the city solicitor should investigate powers the council has for more advertising of its public displays, arguing that this would allow residents to take precautions for their animals and vulnerable people.
Get breaking news first on the free Manchester Evening News app - download it here for your Apple or Android device. You can also get a round-up of the biggest stories sent direct to your inbox every day with the MEN email newsletter - subscribe here . And you can follow us on Facebook here .
