A DEBATE calling for more restrictions on fireworks has been adjourned by East Hampshire District Council.

At the full council meeting on November 7, deputy Labour group leader Cllr Stephen Dolan proposed that council leader Cllr Richard Millard should write to the government urging for the noise level of fireworks to be capped at 90 decibels – equivalent to the noise of a powered lawnmower.

He added: “Fireworks are used throughout the year to mark different events and can cause significant problems and fear for some people and animals, who not only suffer psychological distress but can also cause themselves injuries – sometimes very serious ones – as they attempt to run away or hide from the noise.”

Cllr Dolan’s proposal also required public firework displays to be advertised so people with animals and vulnerable relatives could take precautions to protect them.

Rowlands Castle Conservative councillor Malcolm Johnson said: “I have sympathy with this motion in principle but as it stands it would be unmanageable for our environmental team. It needs to be refined.”

Councillors voted unanimously to adjourn the debate so more work could be done on the proposal.