Councillors in Paisley have been ‘‘inundated’’ with complaints about fireworks and their “negative impact” on pets since the initiation of the process to impose control zones.

Appeal has been made to individuals and community organizations to get involved with the process, which may designate certain geographical areas a no-go zone for use of fireworks on private residential properties.
The main aim of setting up a zone is to reduce the social harm created by fireworks in areas related to animal welfare, at-risk populations, and the environment. However, for these zones to be legally binding, they must be supported, reasonable, and thoroughly consulted.

Applications are being invited by Renfrewshire Council, which may be submitted by a group of people (not specified, just with the minimum of 25 signatures), a welfare body, a community council, or a local partnership area, in readiness for Bonfire Night later this year.

Councillor Eddie Devine representing Paisley Southeast said: “I would urge anyone who has an interest in this to get involved because we get so many complaints, a massive amount, about these fireworks and the distress they can cause to pets.”
Most of the animals are very scared, and their experiences become very harrowing, giving representatives of similar settings a chance to take part in the activity.

After the application period ends in late February, all applications will be reviewed for their feasibility and enforceability by a committee of partner agencies that will convene in March.

Before establishment of a firework control zone, the council will present a detailed recommendation. Steps to follow will be consultation with the residents and workers in the proposed area or in its vicinity and other members of the community as well as persons who may have some connection to it.

This period is expected to last between eight to 12 weeks, starting at the end of April and finishing up in late July. The final proposal will be published after the consultation, including the updates from that process.

If the consultation results in the approval of a zone, there has to be a notice period of not less than 60 days before it can become effective. As such, all finalized and agreed-upon proposals for firework control zones shall be published by August 15 such that they shall be in operation by October 15.

SNP Councillor for Paisley Southwest, Stephen Burns said, “The number of complaints I have had with regards to fireworks is astonishing, particularly in relation to animals. The impact they can have can be a massive disturbance not only to individuals but also to their dogs and cats."
“I would encourage people to come forward and take part in airing their views which would be the only way their voices would be heard.

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