Tamworth Council Withdraws Financial Support for Annual Fireworks Event
In a significant decision affecting local traditions, Tamworth Borough Council has officially withdrawn its funding for the town's annual fireworks display. This move was confirmed during recent budget scrutiny meetings, marking the end of council-backed pyrotechnic celebrations that have been a fixture in the community for years.
Background and Previous Event Changes
The fireworks display was historically held in the picturesque Tamworth Castle Grounds. However, the event faced previous disruptions, with council leaders initially citing Martyn's Law – legislation enacted following the Manchester Arena bombing – as a primary reason for halting the gathering. Last year, the council proposed relocating the event to Statfold Country Park and introducing a £12 attendance charge for residents. This plan was ultimately abandoned after facing substantial criticism from the community on social media platforms.
Council's Rationale and Budgetary Decisions
Councillor Lewis Smith, the cabinet member for people services, engagement, leisure, and heritage, clarified the council's new strategic direction. He stated that the authority aims to transition into a facilitator of events rather than the primary organiser. This shift is reflected in the budget, which explicitly removes the £15,000 allocation previously designated for the fireworks event at Statfold. Councillor Smith bluntly confirmed, "no it's not going to go ahead, the fireworks in the town centre."
The council attributes the decision to a combination of escalating operational costs and the stringent safety requirements imposed by Martyn's Law. Council Leader Carol Dean emphasised the sustainability aspect, explaining, "What we've done is try to manage events in a different way so that Tamworth Borough Council doesn't bear the cost of all that stuff... getting other partners involved so that it can keep going on." She also referenced safety concerns, noting, "we were told from several places that our firework event was not safe."
Community Reaction and Political Debate
The decision has sparked disappointment and debate among residents and opposition councillors. Councillor Samuel Smith expressed his dismay, stating, "I think it is a real shame and I think a lot of residents will be disappointed and they will not understand the reason for it." He questioned whether the driving force was financial constraints or the application of Martyn's Law, and criticised the council's approach to community events, arguing they fail to recognise the wider economic benefits such gatherings bring to the town centre.
The council's budget survey, which informed these decisions, indicated that residents recommended reduced spending in several areas, including:
- Climate change initiatives
- Assembly rooms and events
- Support to local businesses
- Customer services
Councillor Samuel Smith suggested the council was selectively using this feedback, remarking, "You're basically taking everything from the survey consultation and for some reason you're fixated on destroying these events that have been going on for years in Tamworth and really do have a positive impact on many residents' lives."
Looking Forward
The final budget, which formalises the end of fireworks funding, is scheduled for approval on Tuesday 24 February. This decision underscores a broader shift in how Tamworth Borough Council manages and funds public events, prioritising a facilitator model over direct organisation. The future of large-scale, council-supported celebrations in Tamworth now hinges on the involvement of external partners and alternative funding mechanisms.
