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

Deputy Labour group leader Cllr Stephen Dolan, who represents Alton Wooteys, wanted action taken to protect animals and vulnerable people from loud and unexpected bangs caused by pyrotechnics.

Part of Cllr Dolan’s motion included asking council leader Cllr Richard Millard to write to the government urging the noise level of fireworks sold to the public for private displays be capped at 90 decibels – equivalent to a powered lawnmower.

Introducing his motion, Cllr Dolan said while fireworks “bring much enjoyment to some people”, they “can cause significant problems and fear for other people and animals”.

Cllr Paula Langley seconded the motion and spoke about the effects fireworks could have on people with autism.

Another point of the motion required all public firework displays to be advertised so people with animals and vulnerable relatives could take precautions to protect them.

Cllr Suzie Burns said: “I agree with the principle but what exactly is a public firework display? How is this enforceable? What does 90 decibels sound like?

“It feels very woolly – it needs to be nailed down a bit more.”

Eventually it was decided chairman Cllr Keith Budden should propose the debate be adjourned so further work could take place on the motion.

The rest of the council agreed unanimously.