Edinburgh Firework Ban Zones Exclude Key Riot Hotspots, Council Admits

Edinburgh's firework control zones (FCZ) have been criticized for only partially covering streets that have experienced some of the worst Bonfire Night disturbances, including Hay Avenue in Niddrie where clashes with riot police involved fireworks and petrol bombs. The leader of Edinburgh City Council, Jane Meagher, acknowledged the zones are "arbitrary" but expressed confidence that the current arrangements will continue to improve safety, with a willingness to adjust zones if problems persist. The restrictions, which run from October 31 to November 9, criminalize setting off or throwing fireworks in the zones unless part of an organized event, and have doubled in number this year to include additional areas such as Corstorphine, Moredun, Gracemount, Longstone, and Sighthill. Despite these measures, residents like Liz Jack report ongoing fear and disruption during the firework season, noting that the restrictions do not cover entire neighborhoods and that trouble has escalated in recent years. Police Scotland reported fewer incidents during last year's Bonfire Night compared to 2023 but still noted youth disorder in several areas covered by the FCZs. The council plans to continue evaluating the effectiveness of the zones and may revise them based on observed outcomes.