Drones being deployed to combat Calderdale firework menace
It's part of a clampdown on the antisocial use of the pyrotechnics
Drones are being deployed in Calderdale to tackle anti-social behaviour related to misuse of fireworks, with the bonfire season fast approaching.
Posts from two of Calderdale’s political parties have referenced their use and heralding a clampdown on some firework use which is deemed unacceptable.
Calderdale Council’s ruling Reform UK group have said on their social media that: “We know residents across Calderdale have been increasingly frustrated by fireworks being set off late at night, repeatedly and at unacceptable times.
“This is about tackling the persistent misuse of fireworks that is disturbing residents, frightening animals and causing unnecessary disruption.”
The party says that following several meetings with the relevant enforcement agencies, “a proactive Calderdale-wide approach is now under way”, including use of drones to help locate where fireworks are being set off from, allowing agencies to better target problem areas.
Reform says there are legal restrictions too – ordinarily, fireworks must not be set off between 11pm and 7am, apart from specific permitted exceptions.
“We are hopeful residents in some areas are already noticing an improvement, but the work isn’t stopping there.
“This proactive approach will continue across Calderdale until after Bonfire Night.
“Please keep reporting incidents, particularly fireworks being repeatedly set off late at night, and give a suspected location wherever possible.
“Anti-social behaviour at the expense of everyone else is not acceptable, and we will continue pushing for action,” says the group’s post.
Wainhouse ward Labour councillors have also posted about the issue, saying: “Residents across Wainhouse have been telling us loud and clear: late-night and out-of-season fireworks are causing real concern and disruption in our communities.”
Councillors Ann Kingstone and Dave Mendes da Costa say they have been have been working with organisations to develop a co-ordinated Fireworks Action Plan, bringing together the council, Police and partners to tackle the problem through prevention, intelligence, patrols and targeted enforcement.
Through September, this has included targeted patrols in hotspot areas, drone deployment where appropriate and pro-active visits to locations linked to complaints.
Warning letters where intelligence identifies concerns have been issued, said the councillors, with intelligence and reporting guidelines made clear.
“This is about listening to residents and taking action.
“People should not have to put up with repeated late-night disruption, frightened pets, disturbed sleep or fireworks being used irresponsibly.
“The message is simple – if fireworks are causing problems in our communities, report them.
“Your information matters and helps authorities identify patterns, hotspots and those responsible…
“Our communities deserve peace, safety and respect – and we’ll keep fighting for them,” said the councillors.