The popular event now has permanent permission to be held annually
The fireworks event in Wimbledon Park will be held on Saturday, November 8, this year(Image: Getty Images)
A popular fireworks event in South London has won a permanent licence to make sure it “continues to be delivered responsibly”. Fireworks in the Park has permission to continue to be held annually in Wimbledon Park, where previously Merton Council had applied for this on a yearly basis.
Wandsworth Council granted Merton a premises licence to hold the event on one day a year, after a licensing hearing on October 21. Merton had to apply to Wandsworth for permission for the annual event as the part of the fireworks area sits in the borough.
In a new report, Wandsworth’s licensing committee granted the licence after “recognising the event as a long-standing, well-attended community occasion that thousands enjoy each year”. The fireworks event will go ahead on Saturday, November 8, this year, with future dates to be confirmed on a yearly basis.
The new licence allows the event to be held on one night a year in October or November(Image: Getty Images)
The licensing application originally sparked concern among residents, as it asked for permission to sell booze, play music and hold entertainment in the park from 11am to 11pm on any day of the year. But licensing officers confirmed this was only to provide flexibility as the fireworks could fall on any day of the week and the licence was limited to one night a year in October or November.
Daz Guerin, Merton’s head of cultural events, told the hearing: “This event has a long-standing place in the local community calendar, attracting residents of all ages and backgrounds from across the boroughs of Wandsworth and Merton to enjoy safe, well-managed and celebratory events. Our intention in applying for this licence is to ensure the event continues to be delivered responsibly and in full compliance with the licensing objectives.”
He added: “The Wimbledon fireworks have long been a valued community tradition bringing people together in a safe, managed environment. By holding an event under a premises licence, we can ensure that all aspects of the evening are professionally controlled, risk assessed and accountable.”
Wandsworth’s licensing committee amended the licence so the event can be held from 4.30pm if it falls on a weekday, and from 11am on a weekend.
The report said: “The decision balanced the interests of the applicant, residents, and responsible authorities, aiming to support a safe and inclusive event while protecting the residential community from undue disruption.” The event will have a funfair, bar, street food and entertainment.
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