New restrictions on the type of fireworks that can be let off over Stirling Castle are set to be introduced following recent complaints from residents.
The anger stems from an incident last month where a display lit up the skies shortly after 10pm on the evening of April 19, with many in the community claiming to have been left in the dark over the plans and critical of the stress caused to children and pets.
One of those affected was freelance journalist Caroline Malcolm-Boulton, who said: “The display was spectacular and will have doubtless put a smile on many people’s faces ((mine included, I love fireworks), but it was extremely thoughtless of those involved to hold such a disruptive spectacle at that time of night and without adequate warning.
“I for one had a baby who woke up screaming and you could hear all the neighbourhood dogs barking.”
A spokesperson for Historic Environment Scotland revealed the fireworks were set off as part of a private function taking place at the castle that evening and said notice of the display had been given to councillors and advertised in local media.
But that explanation was criticised by those living in the vicinity of the castle – as well as by Mid Scotland and Fife Green MSP Mark Ruskell.
HES have now introduced changes for fireworks able to be used at private events, with only ‘low-noise’ varieties now permitted.
The organisation has also committed to a review on their communication with residents to ensure that locals are given adequate warning about potentially disruptive events.
Mr Ruskell said: “After many constituents reported distress caused to their families as a result of this event, I wrote to Historic Environment Scotland and am grateful that they have taken these concerns seriously – acting swiftly to address the impacts of firework displays at Stirling Castle.
“It’s clear that this late-night, noisy firework display earlier in April was really distressing for the Castle’s neighbours, most of whom were given little advance notice of this event.
“Situations like this are completely avoidable by better informing residents, and reducing the extent of the noise pollution by using quieter fireworks. I hope the actions taken by Historic Environment Scotland will ensure nothing like this happens again.”
A spokesperson for HES said: “We appreciate feedback from residents and following feedback from a recent private event by a third party at the castle which included the use of fireworks, we have introduced a restriction at Stirling Castle to only permit the use of low noise fireworks for displays at private functions.
“A possible exception to this would be larger public events such as Stirling’s Hogmanay celebrations which is organised by Stirling Council.
“We are also reviewing further opportunities to ensure that the local community is adequately informed prior to any future firework displays.”
