Council Leader Jane Meagher and Police Scotland’s Chief Superintendent and Divisional Commander for Edinburgh David Robertson look ahead to Bonfire Night and our plans to keep our communities safe.
As Bonfire Night draws near, we are reminded of the impact of past years’ events on our communities.
The disorder and disturbances, which were carried out by groups of motivated individuals, saw the reckless and criminal use of fireworks to target emergency service workers, vital bus services, local businesses and even members of the public themselves.
Things need to change.
Our priority is to ensure that everyone can enjoy a safe and memorable evening, and the City of Edinburgh Council and Police Scotland have been exploring a range of enforcement and preventative measures to minimise the negative effects of fireworks at this time of year.
One of the most significant steps taken within the city is the introduction, and subsequent expansion of Firework Control Zones (FCZs). First rolled out last year, these zones are designed to address concerns about the dangerous misuse of fireworks and to protect vulnerable people, animals, and the environment.
Communities were able to apply to the Council for their area to be considered as a FCZ and their locations were carefully chosen based on data and evidence, as well as feedback from residents.
Aligning these with Dispersal Zones ensures there is a comprehensive framework in place to deter reckless and antisocial behaviour. What is important to remember, however, is that FCZs and Dispersal Zones are part of a range of measures police will be able to utilise during the Bonfire Night period to tackle criminality and keep people safe.
High-visibility patrols of police officers, Environmental Wardens and other council officers, along with utilisation of the city’s vast CCTV camera network provide all relevant agencies with an extensive reach into areas that analysis suggests could be at risk of disorder. In addition, regular and continued visits to premises licensed to sell fireworks will commence imminently to conduct safety checks and ensure that all licensing responsibilities in terms of the sale of these items are being met.
We know that enforcement alone won’t solve the problem. It’s equally important to focus on prevention and community engagement.
That’s why all key partners within the city are working together to support and enhance the local events held during Bonfire Night. These events are more than just celebrations – they reduce anti-social behaviour and provide an opportunity for the community to come together in a safe and organised way to enjoy the evening.
We’re also placing a strong emphasis on engaging directly with young people. A recent youth summit brought together pupils from schools across the city, the Council, the Police, and other local agencies to have an open conversation about the issues and collaborate on finding solutions. This dialogue is crucial in understanding the perspectives of young people and shaping effective strategies for change.
Through initiatives such as the police’s School Liaison Officers and targeted community outreach, along with the council’s ongoing community engagement programmes, we are raising awareness about safety and the consequences of antisocial behaviour and we’re collaborating with youth clubs and activity providers to ensure that there are plenty of safe, fun alternatives to misusing fireworks on the night itself.
While the Police will continue to enforce the law where necessary, and the Council will do everything within our power to keep communities safe, we know that lasting change comes through collaboration. By working together, we are confident that this year’s Bonfire Night will be a night the whole community can enjoy safely.