Agenda item

The Board considered a report of the Strategic Director, Communities which presented a report by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service on the Annual Bonfire Season Report 2010.  Mr Colin Heyes, Arson Reduction Manager, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service attended the meeting to present the report.

The Board was advised that the Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service Annual Bonfire Season Report covered the period from 18th October to 8th November 2010 when activity was increased across the UK for the Service.

The Board was further advised that the report covered the following:-

• Recording of Bonfire Incidents;

• Pre-Planning and Partnership Activity;

• Bonfire Removal Schemes;

• Educational Events and Activities;

• Diversionary Events;

• Response;

• Fire and Rescue Control;

• Media; and

• Incident Data and Performance.

Members were requested to give consideration to the recommendations set out on page 48, paragraphs 13.1 – 13.12 of the report.

It was noted that the annual firework display cost in the region of £30,000 per year and was not contributing to reducing the number of fires / accidents and other incidents on bonfire night.  It was also noted that people from in and outside of the Borough came to the event, which lasted for approximately 20 minutes and then attended private bonfire parties.  It was suggested that in conjunction with Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service consideration be given to holding two events, which could be subsidised by food xxx such as burger bars etc.  This could also result in a financial saving. 

After considerable discussion, it was agreed that a short term topic group be established  (two meetings) to look into the feasibility of holding two such events this year.  The topic group, it was agreed, would be Chaired by Councillor Ratcliffe.  Councillor Wallace also volunteered to be part of the group and it was agreed that an email would be sent to all Members of the Board requesting nominations to be part of the group. 

The topic group would look at examples of good practice and consider alternative sites to hold the bonfire events, one in Runcorn and one in Widnes which could be subsidised by food outlets. It was suggested that the membership should include Mr Colin Heyes, Mr Simon Walker and the Housing Association as land owners.  It was also agreed that the Board would consider the recommendations, including any financial savings from the topic group which would be presented to the Executive Board for approval.

RESOLVED: That

(1)                     The report and comments made be noted;

(2)                     Mr Colin Heyes be thanked for his informative verbal presentation;

(3)                     A topic group chaired by Councillor Ratcliffe be established to consider the possibility of two alternative subsidised bonfire events, one in Runcorn and one in Widnes;

(4)                     An email be circulated to Members of the Board for nominations to be part of the topic group; and

(5)                     the recommendations be presented to the Board for ratification and subsequently to the Executive Board for adoption.