Council rules out low-noise fireworks for display

Low-noise fireworks would not be used for the annual Bonfire Night display in the Isle of Man's capital despite the option having been considered, the local authority has said.

Douglas Council said that while its current provider confirmed a quieter display could be delivered at no extra cost, it had advised against using them.

The council said the advice included that alternatives to a "traditional" display could lead to a rise in people buying their own louder fireworks to set off at home.

Chairman of the Regeneration and Community Committee, Councillor Natalie Byron-Teare, said it had been "agreed that the display we currently operate remains the most effective and responsible approach".

The current approach reflected "a careful balance between community enjoyment, public safety and minimising wider disruption," she continued.

"We have long recognised that fireworks attract differing views, which is why we considered switching to a low-noise display this year," she added.

The council said it noted the event in the capital played an "important role" in discouraging multiple private displays across residential areas, which the local authority said were "often the primary cause of distress to residents and pets".

Animal welfare considerations were better managed through a planned event, the council added.

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