This policy is being introduced in order to assist the Council to comply with its statutory duties and to control risk to members of the public accessing Council land.
The Council recognises that bonfires are a means of cultural expression within certain local communities and is committed to engaging with these communities in order to ensure safe and sustainable bonfires, and to identify and agree safe methods of cultural expression. Whilst the council accepts the significance of bonfires to specific communities, it also recognises the damage that bonfires can cause to good relations within the district, and the potential hate crimes that can occur, particularly the placement of flags and effigies.
The aim of this policy is to provide clear and appropriate guidance in relation to bonfire events being held on Council land. It applies to bonfires and beacons associated with community celebrations and traditions, and will extend to providing health & safety protocols, Good Relations measures, awareness initiatives, relevant promotion of diversionary activities and enforcement where necessary.
