While the 2025 fireworks period was a real improvement on recent years, there is more to do to make it safe for our communities in south Edinburgh.
Over the past couple of months, I’ve been gathering local views to understand residents’ experiences of the period around Halloween and Bonfire Night in 2025 and to help shape planning for the future.
The results of my recent survey are now finalised and are being shared with the Council and Police Scotland to inform their preparations for this year’s fireworks period.
The survey was designed to ensure that residents’ experiences shape local planning. Thank you to the hundreds of people who took part.
Key findings
- 69% said their overall experience was better than previous years.
- 70% reported lower levels of antisocial behaviour.
- 65% noted reduced noise and disturbance.
- 73% said retailers not selling fireworks following my letter helped reduce disorder.
These results show significant progress in 2025.
Firework Control Zones
- 49% said Control Zones were effective in reducing disorder.
- 21% said they were not effective, and 30% were unsure.
While views are mixed, there is clear support for targeted restrictions.
Policing
Residents expressed mixed views on police visibility and response:
- 47% felt police were not very or not at all visible.
- 32% believed the police response was effective, with a majority unsure.
Many residents also raised concerns about the impact of fireworks on animals and vulnerable people, which was a strong and recurring theme in comments. There were also calls to strengthen enforcement and extend coverage of Firework Control Zones beyond the period around Halloween and Bonfire Night.
I am now sharing all of these views with the Council and Police Scotland to help their preparation for 2026.
Thank you to local residents’ groups, youth groups, Police Scotland, Council staff and partner organisations whose work contributed to the improvements seen last year.