REPORTS made today suggest the Scots capital could see its iconic Hogmanay firework celebrations axed over concerns for animal welfare.
New City of Edinburgh Council leader Jane Meaghar has suggested the celebratory fireworks display that the city is so well known for could be ended.
The move comes following the death of a baby red panda at Edinburgh Zoo on Bonfire Night, thought to be caused by stress induced by fireworks being let off.
This year’s celebrations in the city centre were cancelled due to adverse weather conditions leaving thousands of tourists and locals without plans for Hogmanay.
The controversial move to cancel the celebrations caused a stir in local communities who perceived the council to be favouring tourists over locals.
Many, including Trainspotting author Irvine Welsh, vocalised concerns about the city council allowing private events groups to profit from public spaces.
They pointed out that locals could celebrate the new year in the city centre with or without permission or tickets from private events companies.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland has called for tighter restrictions on the sale of fireworks in the city following the tragic death of baby red panda Roxy in November.
Following refreshed concerns over fireworks after Roxy’s death, city council leader Jane Meaghar – who has been in the role for less than three weeks – appears to be considering the cancellation of the displays.
She cited reasons including pets, wildlife and animals in the city’s zoo who suffer from the noises the pyrotechnics produce.
Speaking to the Telegraph, Meaghar said the days “when we send explosives into the air were coming to an end”.
She continued to say that alternatives could offer a “wonderful and heartwarming experience” to audiences.
Some possible alternatives to traditional fireworks include drone shows and silent fireworks, both of which achieve the same effect but create limited noise pollution.
