After being cancelled due to the pandemic in 2020, the last organised Bonfire Night fireworks display in Glasgow Green took place in 2019. As a result, people have been doing their own thing, taking to parks and disrupting with loud noise throughout. Now, Glasgow City Council leader Councillor Ricky Bell expressed there is a “strong case” to bring back the massive fireworks display to Glasgow.
Encouraging locals and visitors alike to attend a large organised display would reduce the number of Glaswegians causing disruption.
The conversation was started after a police vehicle was set on fire during Bonfire Night on Greenside Street in Glasgow, injuring a man and causing damage. What is more, emergency responders were also hurt after being attacked with fireworks.
Councillor Bell told the local democracy reporting service: “I think there’s a pretty strong case for reinstating a large, organised fireworks display at Glasgow Green – both in terms of establishing a safe, controlled way for people to celebrate and, potentially, reducing the number of unofficial and often disruptive displays.
“Now, I think we need to be careful about imagining a public display would prevent thugs who want to attack police, fire and ambulance crews from misusing fireworks.
“However, I do recognise the impact that widespread use can have on many residents, pet owners and communities at this time of year.”
“We’re looking at some options. It’s not a straightforward decision – delivering a major fireworks event is expensive, and we also need to consider the impact such an event can have on residents around the venue – but it’s under serious consideration.”
