Council backs call for 'silent' fireworks

ANTRIM and Newtownabbey Borough Council has backed a motion to promote ‘silent fireworks’ at council run and funded events, and run an awareness campaign about the dangers and damages caused by noisy pyrotechnics.

Proposed by Antrim Town Councillor Paul Dunlop and seconded by Councillor Helen Magill, it moves that: “This council notes the negative impact that the noise of fireworks can have on children, pets and livestock alongside the impact of unregulated sale and usage more generally.

“This council further notes ongoing campaigns seeking a review of current firework regulations by the NSPCA, HelpAnimalsUK, The Firework Campaign and others.

“This Council will consequently consider the use of silent fireworks for all future council-led events where fireworks are to be used.

“Officers are to report back to the relevant Committee with recommended changes to events, which include firework displays, and provide proposals for a public statement and promotional campaign to raise awareness of the impact of fireworks on children, pets, and livestock, in advance of autumn 2026.”

Last Halloween, Templepatrick showjumper Joanne Sloane-Allen hit out after her pet dog buddy was spooked by fireworks from a neighbouring property and ran from her garden.

He was later found dead on the railway line.

Councillor Dunlop said: “The purpose of this motion is not to take away the enjoyment of fireworks displays. Fireworks have long been part of our celebrations, bringing people together and creating moments of joy. This motion is about finding a safer and more considerate way to continue those traditions.

“While it is true that fireworks cannot be made completely silent, low-noise fireworks do exist. These focus on stunning visual effects while keeping loud bangs to a minimum. They are a far better option for animals, vulnerable people, and families who are deeply affected by sudden loud noises.

“We have all heard heartbreaking stories like that of Buddy, a much-loved family dog. On Halloween night, Buddy was spooked by a firework, escaped from his home in fear, and was tragically found later having passed away. Sadly, Buddy’s story is not unique. Every year, pets go missing, suffer injuries, or experience severe distress because of loud fireworks.

“Fireworks in the wrong hands are also extremely dangerous. Without proper care and awareness, they pose serious risks to both users and the wider public. Promoting safer use, clearer guidance, and responsible choices can significantly reduce accidents and harm.

“This motion is about balance - protecting animals, promoting public safety, and encouraging responsible enjoyment rather than banning fireworks outright. By supporting low-noise alternatives and better education, we can make celebrations safer and more inclusive for everyone.

“I hope you will all fully support this motion.

Councillor Magill said: “I am pleased to be able to join with my party colleague, Councillor Dunlop this evening, in bringing this motion to the chamber.

“When it comes to the visual display of fireworks, few could help but be impressed by the spectacle that these pyrotechnic displays can bring. The array of beautiful designs and colours in the night sky can be truly breathtaking. However, the very loud bangs and excessive noise associated with traditional firework displays can have a significant adverse impact on both people and animals and, it is for this reason, that I am joining with my colleague to encourage Council to introduce the use of ‘silent’ or low noise alternatives.

“For many individuals with sensory sensitivities, including those with autism, anxiety, PTSD or other sensory processing difficulties, the explosive bangs and shrill, high-pitched whistling sounds of traditional fireworks can cause immense distress.

“Often these fireworks produce noise levels that exceed 120 decibels.

“These sudden high-intensity sounds can be similar to an explosion, a clap of thunder or being in close proximity to a jet engine and can not only cause severe distress to people but can also trigger a fear response in animals.

“We are a nation of animal lovers, with over half the households in Northern Ireland owning a family pet and around a third owning a dog, that’s the highest of all the regions in the UK. Yet, I’m sure that those pet owners amongst you, can attest to the stress experienced by your pets during the firework season. Livestock and local wildlife are equally affected by the excessive noise associated with traditional fireworks.

“By using and promoting the use of low noise fireworks, we can offer a more inclusive way for our community to enjoy these celebrations without inflicting unnecessary discomfort, harm and risk to people and animals alike.

“Low noise fireworks use alternative compositions and effects which emit gentle crackles, soft fizzing and whistle effects, typically at sound levels below 80 decibels making them less startling and more tolerable for sensitive listeners. They still provide an extravaganza of visual effects but with noise levels that maintain the excitement but remove the shock and stress factor.

“In essence, Members, adopting these low noise, often referred to as, ‘silent’ fireworks, represents a responsible, considerate and inclusive approach to community events where we can enjoy all the colour and spectacle of a wonderful firework display without compromising the wellbeing of others.

“I trust that you will agree with me and adopt this motion.

Alliance Antrim Town Councillor Neil Kelly asked for council facilities, such as Antrim Castle Gardens, and council funded events to be explicitly included in the motion, which was agreed.

Antrim SDLP Councillor Roisin Lynch said:

“I am supporting this motion because it deals with a problem residents raise with us every single year. We may not control fireworks legislation but we can control how council runs its own events. Silent fireworks are a practical alternative.

“Many people simply would not understand the impact fireworks can have on others. I would ask council to take responsibility and not contribute to a problem.”

Speaking after the council meeting, Councillor Magill commented, “I am really pleased that this motion from Councillor Dunlop and myself received the unanimous backing of council colleagues.

“This is an issue that many constituents have contacted both myself and other colleagues about in recent months and I am delighted that the council is once again taking the lead on an issue of importance in our local communities.

“This is a good news story for those with sensory issues in particular and I hope that other organisations and individuals will follow the council’s lead and move to use low noise, silent fireworks next autumn.”