Antrim and Newtownabbey Council supports move to silent fireworks

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has backed a motion supporting the use of silent fireworks at council events and on council-owned property.

The motion was proposed by Antrim DUP Councillor Paul Dunlop BEM at a meeting of the council in Mossley Mill, Newtownabbey, on Monday evening.

Cllr Dunlop asked the council to note the “negative impact” the noise of fireworks can have on children, pets and livestock, and called for a council-led campaign to raise awareness of the issue ahead of Halloween.

Seconding the motion, party colleague Ballyclare Councillor Helen Magill said:

“The very loud bangs and excessive noise associated with traditional firework displays can have a significant adverse impact on both people and animals and, it is for this reason, that I am joining with my colleague to encourage council to introduce the use of ‘silent’ or low noise alternatives.

“For many individuals with sensory sensitivities, including those with autism, anxiety, PTSD or other sensory processing difficulties, the explosive bangs and shrill, high-pitched whistling sounds of traditional fireworks can cause immense distress.

“By using and promoting the use of low noise fireworks, we can offer a more inclusive way for our community to enjoy these celebrations without inflicting unnecessary discomfort, harm and risk to people and animals alike.

“Low noise fireworks use alternative compositions and effects which emit gentle crackles, soft fizzing and whistle effects, noise levels that maintain the excitement but remove the shock and stress factor.

“Adopting these low noise, often referred to as, ‘silent’ fireworks, represents a responsible, considerate and inclusive approach to community events where we can enjoy all the colour and spectacle of a wonderful firework display without compromising the well-being of others.”

Alliance Councillor Neil Kelly asked for council facilities, such as Antrim Castle Gardens, to be explicitly included in the motion.

Antrim SDLP Councillor Roisin Lynch said:

“I am supporting this motion because it deals with a problem residents raise with us every single year. We may not control fireworks legislation but we can control how council runs its own events. Silent fireworks are a practical alternative.

“Many people simply would not understand the impact fireworks can have on others. I would ask council to take responsibility and not contribute to a problem.”