Harrow residents have voiced concerns on social media over the misuse of fireworks across the borough.
These concerns are focused on individuals using fireworks irresponsibly, not those celebrating Diwali or Guy Fawkes Night responsibly.
Footage sent to Harrow Online shows fireworks being set off dangerously low on Station Road in Harrow Town Centre opposite Greenhill Place.
Another clip, shared in the Harrow Online Group on Facebook, was filmed on Alexandra Avenue in Rayners Lane, where fireworks were ignited in the street.
The person who posted the video, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, “It’s so unfortunate that this is what our borough has come to. It’s pretty self explanatory that lighting fireworks in the street is illegal and is a massive distraction/safety hazard to oncoming cars. I captured this video at 11:56PM today on Alexandra Avenue by the Zoroastrian centre.
“To make matters worse the police were present yesterday after a group of people did the same outside KFC. I genuinely would not be surprised if these are the same lads.
“We need to say enough is enough when tackling this sort of antisocial behaviour. If anyone can identify any of the individuals please contact the police and make Harrow a nicer and safer place for us collectively.”
Other group members also shared their thoughts. Anita Irwin commented, “A friend who works at a veterinary clinic in Preston Road has said it was like a war zone there when she started her journey on her way home to Bushey.”
Aly Gibbs added, “1am again last night then at 5.30 this morning, all week well after 1am, had to stop neighbours letting them off in their small front garden the day of Halloween as it was right by the path where kids were walking pass trick or treating. They never used to be this loud, it’s been constant for about a week now, early hours of the morning!!.”
Sunil Kapoor noted, “Yes fireworks noise was still going on after 1am last night and people were setting them off outside their homes on Hindes Road and Pinner Road when I walked home the past two nights.”
James Be said, “At about 7pm or 8pm some people were letting off fireworks in the small playground of the new flats built where Gayton Library and the car park used to be, on 31st October. Passing traffic slowed to avoid being hit.”
Pragna Shah suggested, “All the loud bangers should be banned completely from being sold. People can use the silent ones. It seems to be worse this year with the fireworks going off till early morning.”
Jacqui Warren remarked, “South Harrow is ridiculous. As people have said there are non stop fireworks and they start early and finish very late – or as it’s the next day early. Lying in bed last night listening to them still going off at 1.35am. I have no idea where they come from but they are close as they are so loud.
“Harrow was on the news yesterday as they are doing a combined Diwali and bonfire night fireworks display. That’s perfect! Alexander Palace had a drone light display – spectacular. It can be done responsibly, respectfully and safely. We need to make it illegal to sell fireworks to the public and do organised displays only.”
Selina Benn said, “I’ve always loved fireworks and the season when the clocks go back. However in recent years, they’re no longer confined to private gardens and organised displays – they’re done on streets. I did actually ask a man who was lighting them why he was doing that – he said it’s because they live on a high floor flat and don’t have a garden!!
“When driving through Wealdstone on Thursday evening, a group of teenagers (definitely weren’t from the community celebrating Diwali) were standing on the high street with rockets in their hands!! It’s becoming a feral society with no one respecting their own safety – let alone for others. Police as usual, are nowhere to be seen.”
Cllr Paul Osborn, Leader of the London Borough of Harrow, addressed the issue in MyHarrow, the council’s weekly newsletter, stating, “The subject of fireworks always fills my inbox at this time of year. This week’s newsletter focuses on keeping you and your neighbours safe during Bonfire Night, the new year celebrations and beyond.
“Please remember loud fireworks can really affect the quality of life for some residents – and our pets and wildlife. I urge you to choose an organised display over your own (it’s much safer too). If you do have your own, please be respectful of your neighbours and I ask you not to let off fireworks after 10pm.”
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
He launched Harrow Online in 2010 as a Facebook page sharing local news and information. Since then, it has grown into a trusted source for breaking news, crime, council decisions, planning, transport, business and community stories across the borough.
Harrow Online reaches hundreds of thousands of readers each month and has a social media audience of more than 200,000 followers.
For news tips, press releases or enquiries, contact Chris at info@harrowonline.org.
