West Lothian Council backs calls for fireworks clampdown

West Lothian Council has thrown its support behind calls for stricter regulations on fireworks and their sale. The council, in a bid to tackle the misuse of fireworks, has also urged for increased collaboration with the police and fire services. A recent Conservative motion criticised the inadequacy of new legislation from the Scottish Parliament following disturbances in West Lothian and beyond earlier this month.

Councillor Alison Adamson highlighted the distress caused to both people and animals, referencing the unfortunate deaths of two animals at Edinburgh zoo attributed to fireworks. She pointed out flaws in the new Firework Control Zones and stressed the need for a more robust approach to address the escalating public nuisance caused by fireworks.

Adamson proposed initiatives such as inspections of local registered retailers by trading standards officers to ensure compliance with safety regulations. She also called for a ban on noise-making fireworks for general sale, advocating for silent or reduced noise fireworks to be the only options available to the public. The motion further suggested considerations for prohibiting online sales and deliveries of fireworks and pyrotechnics.

The motion was supported by councillors without debate, indicating a unified stance on the issue within the council. The push for stricter controls on fireworks comes in the wake of concerns about the impact of fireworks on communities, animals, and emergency workers.

In conclusion, West Lothian Council’s backing of these calls for a crackdown on fireworks reflects a commitment to promoting safety and wellbeing in the region. By advocating for tighter regulations and stricter enforcement measures, the council aims to address the disruptive and potentially harmful effects of fireworks on the community.

**Insights and Summary:**

The article sheds light on West Lothian Council’s stance on tightening regulations around the sale and use of fireworks, following recent incidents of disruption and harm caused by fireworks in the area. The council’s support for stricter controls underscores the importance of ensuring public safety and addressing concerns raised by the community. By aligning with calls for a clampdown on fireworks, the council demonstrates a proactive approach towards mitigating the risks associated with fireworks misuse. The emphasis on collaboration with law enforcement agencies and the proposal for bans on certain types of fireworks highlight the council’s commitment to safeguarding the wellbeing of residents and animals. Overall, the article signifies the council’s responsiveness to local issues and its proactive efforts to address public concerns.