Jim McMahon, MP for Oldham West, Chadderton and Royton, has condemned the misuse of fireworks as a major fire rages on Dovestone Moor in Greenfield, Saddleworth. His comments come as the Government launches a consultation on restricting the loudest fireworks from general public sale.
Fireworks Linked to Antisocial Behaviour and Dovestone Fire
McMahon stated it was 'clear' that 'young people gathering for wider anti-social behaviour are often the cause of fireworks being let off at all hours'. He added: 'Even if they are used to celebrate personal occasions the whole borough doesn't need to be woken up by the loud bangs. Fireworks should be used sparingly and during major events, not throughout the year and at all times of the night. Even organised events cause distress to pets, wildlife and people with complex conditions including former veterans.'
The moorland fire near Dovestone Reservoir has been burning fiercely. Residents reported hearing 'loud bangs' before the fire took hold, and videos emerged of youths setting off fireworks following the tragic death of Karl Holland, 18, at Dovestone Reservoir. Shania Care-Slede, 20, of Market Street, Hyde, has been charged with arson and appeared in court on Tuesday.
Government Consultation on Fireworks Noise
Consumer protection minister Kate Dearden launched the consultation, noting that millions enjoy fireworks responsibly but acknowledging concerns from charities, parliamentarians, and the public about their impact. She said: 'Many people have been in touch with me to share their own experience of how fireworks have affected them, their family, their animals, or their wider community. I am grateful to them for taking the time to set out their concerns. These accounts add valuable context alongside the data provided by local authorities, emergency services, animal welfare organisations and the fireworks industry.'
The consultation proposes reforms to existing fireworks legislation, focusing on noise from non-professional displays and their contribution to antisocial behaviour, while allowing responsible use for cultural and community celebrations. Proposals include restricting the loudest fireworks to professional users, extending the list of banned pyrotechnic products, and reviewing regulations for lower-risk fireworks.
Impact on Animal Welfare
Ed Hayes, head of public affairs at the Royal Kennel Club (RKC), highlighted the distress fireworks cause to dogs. He said: 'Unexpected loud bangs and bright flashes can cause significant distress, making events that involve fireworks particularly stressful for many dogs. RKC research shows that 80 per cent of dog owners notice significant changes in their dog’s behaviour during fireworks, with many dogs showing signs of extreme fear, including trembling, hiding, barking excessively and becoming unusually clingy.' Hayes added that the RKC found a 100% increase in dogs going missing during fireworks season, with almost a third of owners reporting shivering and trembling. He welcomed measures to reduce distress while allowing celebrations to continue responsibly.
The consultation will run for 12 weeks, and the Government will use responses to refine proposals, keeping public safety and the impact on people, animals, and property central to the work.
