Fireworks ban on historic Castle Hill

Oct 30 2009 By Neil Atkinson

“But such occasions are licensed events, run by professional companies, with safety precautions and with necessary approvals from English Heritage.

“Most importantly the local community is informed and forewarned.

“The increasing number of ‘ad hoc’ celebrations, using large display fireworks, are neither authorised nor safe. While apparently just a bit of fun, they are in fact irresponsible, cause serious nuisance and are potentially damaging.

“The fireworks let off at night prevent sleep and cause distress, scaring people and pets. They also have the potential to damage this scheduled ancient monument and important historical site.”

Castle Hill Ranger Julian Brown added: “Many of the offenders can’t even be bothered to remove the remains of their fireworks littering the summit of Castle Hill.

“Last year I and my colleagues removed 80 sacks of used fireworks, including 20 on one night.

“It’s not just the inconvenience to local residents, the damage, the safety issues and cleaning the site, I also have concerns about the wildlife that we are working to attract and protect.

“The bangs can frighten animals and birds literally to death.

“If the noise doesn’t kill them then birds and mammals can easily become disorientated and suffer in other ways.”