Council-organised bonfire events will not take place in 2022
Manchester City Council has announced that it will, for the third year running, not be holding any organised bonfire night events in 2022.
After a turbulent few years surrounding crowd safety at public events caused by the pandemic, the Council have made the decision today citing factors including escalating costs and increasing safety measures.
Many people now take to the streets with fireworks purchased from temporary shops and the internet, determined to see Bonfire Night off with a bang
Increased pressure on budgets including the cost of organising large-scale events in Manchester’s parks and public places has held the Council back from putting on any bonfire events this year.
Manchester City Council tightening its belt
“It is with great reluctance that we’re announcing that council-organised bonfire events will not be taking place this year,” said Councillor Lee Ann Igbon, Executive Member for Vibrant Neighbourhoods.
“Bonfire events haven’t taken place in the city since 2019 and we have decided to hold that position this year. This is not a decision we have taken lightly and I know that many people will be disappointed.”
Unauthorised fireworks on the streets
Anybody who lives in the city will tell you that will not stop the firework festivities. Many people now take to the streets with fireworks purchased from temporary shops and the internet, determined to see Bonfire Night off with a bang. These shop-bought fireworks are often detonated close to high-rise buildings, in public areas and in gardens - arguably causing more danger to public safety.
To target this problem, The Council has said in a statement that it will reprioritise neighbourhoods funding to “focus on a program of community events and activities throughout the winter”. Including October’s half-term school holiday activity programme, family events and cultural activities to keep youngsters entertained and fulfilled during school holidays.
“Our Neighbourhood teams have been working tirelessly to re-prioritise the budget on community events and supporting our residents through the cost-of-living crisis.” Said Councillor Igbon.
Our round-up of family-friendly things to do is a great resource for alternative things to do with the kids over the October half-term, and you can find a full list of all Manchester City Council's community events on its website.
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