Scottish ministers are seeking to extend Firework Control Zone (FCZ) legislation to allow Edinburgh Council to include the smaller control zones of Niddrie, Broomhouse/Sighthill and Gracemount/Moredun. This follows the successful implementation of four FCZs last year.
The proposed smaller control zones were areas of high levels of disorder in 2024. Other local community applications to be FCZs will also be included.
Despite the process being delayed by a month, the eight-week-long consultation has commenced and will run until May.
Edinburgh councillors have ruled out the prospect of a city-wide fireworks control zone. Instead, they will focus on tackling fireworks problems at a more localised level.
Alongside implementing FCZs, Edinburgh Council has begun administering other methods to reduce antisocial firework usage. This includes diversionary activities and local events for those in the community.
In 2024, the Council supported the Community Alliance Trust’s partnership with Sandy’s Community Centre, which hosted a family bonfire event with 600 attendees.
The Council aims to engage with zoo officials to develop protection methods due to the significant disruption caused to animals by the fireworks.
Spot checks may be carried out in outlets selling fireworks to inhibit the problem from its root. Preventative education work is to be implemented in schools to mitigate problems among Edinburgh’s youth.
“Edinburgh’s fireworks” by Te lo juro por Madonna is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.