Hilversum gets green light to ban city centre fireworks at New Year

DutchNews, December 14, 2016

Hilversum has been given the green light to ban fireworks from have the the city centre and shopping area by the country’s highest administrative court. 

The Council of State said on Wednesday city executives are empowered to bring in a ban under the same rules which allow them to take action to maintain public order. Firework traders had gone to court to ban overturned. 

The Council of State said preventing the public nuisance caused by fireworks was more important than protecting the traders’ financial interests. 

The case dates back to 2014 when the courts first ruled the city was wrong to impose a blanket ban on city centre fireworks. One trader told broadcaster NOS he now plans to sue the council for damages because of the loss of income. 

Hilversum council is organising a formal fireworks display for locals instead.