Fireworks display will move to RM Condor for safety reasons

Arbroath’s annual fireworks display will be held at RM Condor this year.

The switch comes in response to potential health and safety issues at Inchcape Park.

It is hoped the event, organised by the Fireworks for Arbroath committee, will continue to grow at its new home.

There was no annual bonfire night celebration in the town in 2014, prompting an outcry from disappointed residents.

A group called Fireworks for Arbroath was set up to bring the event back.

Since the display was reinstated, between 7,000 and 10,000 people have attended each year but people watching from the dual carriageway have become a concern for Police Scotland and Angus Council.

A suggested move to Victoria Park also had potential issues due to lack of lighting and proximity to the cliffs. However, RM Condor then stepped in and offered the old airfield at the base for free.

Karren Cuthill, chairwoman of Fireworks for Arbroath 2017, said: “If we wanted to continue with Inchcape Park we were looking at complete dual carriageway closure.

“There would have been at least £1,000 added to our costs, also manpower to steward the closure and put it into place.

“Condor are trying to be a bit more inclusive with the local community.

“We understand that it might be a bit more difficult for people, but we are working with what we have.

“We’ve become a victim of our own success, basically.”

In the years before 2014, the fireworks evening was organised by Arbroath councillor David Fairweather, separate from his official duties.