As it currently stands, the New Year’s Eve festivities at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town on Sunday, 31 December will be firework-free. Image: Hans Braxmeier/Pixabay
V&A Waterfront appeals withdrawal of permit for New Year’s Eve fireworks
As it currently stands, the New Year’s Eve festivities at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town on Sunday, 31 December will be firework-free.
As it currently stands, the New Year’s Eve festivities at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town on Sunday, 31 December will be firework-free. Image: Hans Braxmeier/Pixabay
As it currently stands, the New Year’s Eve festivities at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town on Sunday, 31 December will be firework-free.
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According to the KFM website, the City of Cape Town withdrew the Waterfront’s noise permit to host the event citing “a number of objections” behind the no-firework decision.
At the time of publishing, the Waterfront is reported to be appealing the decision.
The outcome of the appeal is expected in the next two to three days.
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Animal experts and activist groups such as the SPCA have complained, citing evidence that five minutes of extremely loud noises – such as those produced by fireworks – are harmful to animals.
David Green, CEO of the V&A Waterfront, asked for “tolerance” from the public in a chat this week with Cape Talk host John Maytham.
“We’re a major City and it’s about bringing in a New Year. We take mitigating measures – the fireworks are fired off a kilometre away from the nearest residents and last for a limited period. It’s not about the revenue; there’s a noon gun every day that surprises pigeons, so I think – in the age we live in, we need a little bit of tolerance,” Green said.
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While many may not be in favour of fireworks displays, several cities around the world employ them as a way to usher in a New Year, Green said.
“It’s not about revenue, it’s about giving people the best and a world-class experience. Cities are competing with themselves. Sydney’s fireworks are probably about 15 minutes and Edinburgh’s fireworks are at least 12 minutes long. Fireworks does still appeal to many people while it may not to others but we will continue to review and see what is best practice,” Green added.
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SHOULD FIREWORKS BE ALLOWED ON NEW YEAR’S EVE?
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