A BRADFORD district MP and the council have called on the Government to introduce "tougher regulations" to "restrict fireworks" that have been blighting the lives of residents across the city.
Residents across Bradford have spoken out about fireworks going off all hours of the night.
In the House of Commons last year, Robbie Moore, the Conservative MP for Keighley, asked for an urgent debate on fireworks, which at the time was dismissed by Commons Leader Jacob Rhys-Mogg, who said: "I think fireworks are a little bit of harmless fun, people enjoy them and we shouldn't take every enjoyment out of people's lives with endless licensing and regulations."
But with a shake-up of top posts likely when a new Prime Minister takes control, there may be a chance to put the issue back on the table.
This week, Mr Moore reiterated his stance, calling for "tougher regulations" on the use and sale of fireworks.
Mr Moore said: "I regularly receive reports of fireworks being set off in Keighley at all times of the day, causing distress to pets and keeping my constituents awake at night.
"Quite frankly, our town is sick and tired of fireworks misuse. We need tougher regulations on the use and sale of fireworks, and I will continue to pursue this."
A Bradford Council spokesperson said: “It is clearly unacceptable that nuisance fireworks disturb people’s lives and we are doing everything we can to tackle the issue.
“However, we have very limited powers and have to work within the laws set by Government.
“We will continue to push government to restrict fireworks and work with our partners in the police, fire service and trading standards to address the problem.”
A Bradford councillor has also said that anti-social behaviour orders should be introduced to stop fireworks being set off after 11pm.
"Fireworks are a nuisance to a lot of people," said Cllr Taj Salam (Lab, Little Horton). "Labour introduced a motion about fireworks in 2019 and it was supported by all parties.
"Since then, we've made sure residents are aware that council policy is there shouldn't be fireworks going off at all hours.
"When this happens, fireworks have an adverse effect on people's lives, their mental health, kids, pets, sleep and work the next day.
"It's unacceptable. People should be more considerate.
"There should be no fireworks after 11pm. It's leaving vulnerable people isolated in the circumstances.
"In my view, there should be anti-social behaviour orders. Just because you're having a social function, you shouldn't be causing anti-social behaviour. Rules are there not to punish but to educate.
"The Government also needs to bring in a policy about heavy duty fireworks - the ones that come in big massive boxes where you light one fuse and then 85 go off."
Cllr Salam also spoke the importance of people reporting problems with anti-social fireworks.
He said: "When there is a problem, how many people actually complain about it?
"If everyone complains, then hopefully action will be taken. Community intelligence is crucial."
Residents across Bradford have vented their frustrations about fireworks.
Christine Whelan, of Wibsey, said: "Fireworks should finish at 11pm, but people are abusing it and this has been going on all year long.
"Some people have animals who are scared and other people are missing out on sleep.
"These problems are not just at the weekend but during the week as well. People have to get up and go to work.
"I've heard of fireworks going off near Bradford Royal Infirmary, which is not good for people in hospital.
"Some mornings fireworks are going off at 3am. It's not fair on everyone.
"People can't see the full extent of the upset they are causing.
"People shouldn't be so nasty. It's just not very sporting to be letting them off at silly hours."
A man from Wrose said: "Fireworks have gone on and off in the area for more than a year, but the last six months it's been more regular and is pretty much happening every night.
"It's very annoying and wakes me up in the middle of the night. I've got two dogs that start barking too."
A resident from West Bowling added: "The last few weeks it's been happening every single night after 11pm.
"It doesn't appear to be celebrations as big bangers have been going off. They're trying to disturb people's sleep.
"It's unfair the general public have to put up with this.
"Let's stop the sale of fireworks. Legislation needs to be brought in to ban them."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel