Lewisham's Mayor considers cancellation of Firework Display (Lewisham Liberal Democrats)

Lewisham Liberal Democrats <info@lewishamlibdems.org.uk>

Lewisham's Mayor considers cancellation of Firework Display

October 7, 2008 3:00 PM

Blackheath fireworks are under threat from Lewisham's Mayor

Lewisham's Mayor is threatening to end the Blackheath Public Firework Display from 2009, so this year's event could be the last. In a review of expenditure the Mayor is suggesting a cut of £36,000 next year, which would end the free firework display on Blackheath that attracts over 80,000 people.

Blackheath Liberal Democrat councillor Chris Maines says, "This is the safest way to celebrate the fifth of November and once again Lewisham Mayor is considering stopping it."

The event, which is a joint venture between Greenwich and Lewisham Councils, is one of the largest free firework displays in London.

Cllr Maines says that Blackheath residents are proud of their display and local business welcome the extra trade. "Many people walk from all over Lewisham to the heath, which is able to deal safely with large numbers of families. It is a tradition that we must protect."

Cllr Maines added, "If the official display were to be stopped, I can see an increase in people providing their own entertainment on the heath, letting off their own fireworks with an increase in injuries and damage. We must ensure there is a public display because public displays are the safest way to enjoy fireworks."

Liberal Democrats on Lewisham Council will be opposing the latest round of cuts being considered by the Mayor, which were produced as a "matter of urgency" at the Mayor's last meeting. It is believed the Mayor agreed the list of cuts at a meeting in September but a final decision will be taken after consultation on 19th November.