Calls to ditch fireworks in parts of Norfolk
A campaign group is calling for the “wasteful” entertainment to be scrapped in parts of Norfolk
Last updated 6th Aug 2025
They have played a spectacular part in public celebrations for centuries. But is it now time fireworks displays went out with a final bang?
A campaign group is calling for the “wasteful” entertainment to be scrapped in parts of Norfolk in favour of more modern solutions, such as drone light displays.
Members of the West Lynn Action Group took West Norfolk Council to task for its use of the colourful explosives that regularly illuminate the night’s sky over King’s Lynn, saying they should “move with the times”.
At a recent West Norfolk Council meeting, Karen Champion, a spokeswoman for the action group, said: “As an authority with responsibilities towards air quality, noise levels and waste, is it time to consider more modern forms of celebration than the default of large, noisy, polluting Chinese-made fireworks displays?
“The celebration of the Olympics has shown there’s a huge variety of inspirational ways of celebrating events, with light shows and drone-based displays.
“Is it time to show this authority has moved with the times and stop spending our hard-earned money on this waste of natural resources?”
While sympathetic to the disruption fireworks can cause, Sue Lintern, cabinet member for culture and events, said that currently, alternatives are too expensive.
“As an authority, we continue to balance tradition, public enjoyment and sustainability,” she said.
“Our displays remain extremely popular, attracting more than 20,000 residents and visitors, many of whom see them as a cherished tradition.
“At present, the cost of delivering a drone display that offers a similar level of visual impact is significantly higher than a traditional fireworks show, which we currently provide at a cost of less than a pound per head.”
Ms Lintern added that these events bring economic benefits to the town.
While opposing the use of fireworks, Ms Champion was keen for the group not to be seen as ‘party poopers’.
“I’m not saying don’t celebrate, I’m saying look carefully at how you celebrate.”
AN 800-YEAR TRADITION
Gunpowder did not reach England until the 13th century, when the knowledge first developed in China in the 7th century eventually hit the British Isles.
While likely in use earlier, fireworks displays have been a part of civic life since 1486, when the first documented fireworks display was held to commemorate the wedding of King Henry VII and Elizabeth of York.
During the reign of Elizabeth I in the 16th century, pyrotechnic displays grew in popularity and were used frequently for public events across the country.
The failure of the Gunpowder Plot of 1605 has also since been celebrated by annual fireworks displays on November 5.
However, the use of explosives is known to draw the ire of many, who complain they are a waste of money and can cause noise nuisance.
Pet owners are particularly sensitive to the displays, which can cause distress to cats, dogs and other animals.
Fireworks can also be dangerous. In November 2024, four people were injured after a rogue firework was fired into the crowds watching the annual Fawkes in The Walks fireworks display in King’s Lynn.
It is thought the firework came from outside the event, rather than a stray from the official display.
But for others, the prospect of fireworks disappearing from the night’s sky would be an unfathomable end to what has been a tradition for nearly 800 years.