A “drone show” could be the way forward to light up the Bonfire Night skies above Dundee.
That’s the view of Lib Dem councillor Daniel Coleman, who has suggested a modern-day alternative to a fireworks display in the city on November 5.
His suggestion comes as the local authority rules out any return to the traditional Guy Fawkes night celebrations that used to be held in Baxter and Lochee parks.
Dundee council urged to ‘backtrack’ on decision to axe bonfire night fireworks
Mr Coleman previously said Dundee City Council should backtrack on its decision in 2022 to axe public bonfire and fireworks displays in the city.
He said: “The Dundee events strategy should look again at the lack of any offer to the people of Dundee in relation to Bonfire Night.
“The SNP axed fireworks displays in 2022 citing that one of the venues – Baxter Park -would not meet safety criteria following the Manchester Arena tragedy.
“However, Balgay is still a viable venue and there are alternatives to Baxter Park in the east of the city – for example, Drumgeith Park could be considered.
“However, the SNP has completely blanked the issue of reversing its poor decision to get rid of the public fireworks displays each 5th November.
“The council for years sent the message to the public to attend its public fireworks rather than have their own displays as the public displays are safe and that was sensible messaging, particularly given the anti-social behaviour that a minority have been responsible for on 5th November in recent years.
Drone shows could be modern alternative to fireworks
“A sensible council that wants to do its best for the people of Dundee should look again at providing Bonfire Night events.
“This should include looking at modern alternatives to fireworks.
“Drone shows are now increasingly popular and may prove more cost-effective and also avoid the noise concerns that fireworks bring.”
Leader of the Lib Dem group, Councillor Fraser Macpherson added: “Once the principle of having public events back for November 5 is established, council officers should be tasked to look at all options to get best value for money.
“Drone shows are increasingly replacing or supplementing traditional fireworks displays due to their safety, environmental friendliness, lack of noise disturbing pets and creative flexibility.
“While initial setup can be an investment, drones can be reused, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run compared to constantly purchasing new fireworks.”
Council funds going on Christmas tree lights switch-on and Dundee Hooley
Councillor Steven Rome, convener of the council’s fair work, economic growth and infrastructure committee, said: “The decision taken at the council budget was to allocate all the events funding this year to supporting activities in the city centre in the run-up to Christmas.
“This includes the return of a Christmas tree lights switch-on event, and the increasingly popular Dundee Hooley.
“Events such as these create a fun atmosphere and encourage people to come into the city centre over the festive period.”
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