Edinburgh faces Hogmanay with drones but no fireworks

EDINBURGH’S Hogmanay fireworks could be replaced with drones in an overhaul of the event that will also see binge-drinking curbed.

Christmas and New Year celebrations will be radically changed, to make notoriously boozy events “family friendly”, in plans by the city council in the Scottish capital.

Firms bidding for contracts to run the events have been told that a “midnight moment” will still be needed at Hogmanay, but that this could be delivered by drones, lighting or “any other significant intervention”.

Fireworks, set off against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, have been a feature of Hogmanay for decades.

Scotland’s first recorded firework was set off from the castle in 1507, to mark a medieval tournament staged by King James IV.

However, the SNP Government is pushing ahead with a clampdown on the private sale of fireworks in Scotland, claiming they are dangerous, scare animals and that evidence from other countries suggests they pollute the air.

In a tender document, the city council has also asked companies to introduce areas or times at which alcohol is banned during Christmas celebrations, and to ensure all festive events are “environmentally sustainable.”

The move follows years of complaints from some residents that the events have become overly commercialised and have fuelled anti-social behaviour.

There was an outcry in 2019 when city-centre residents were told they must apply for permission to a private company to access their own homes during Hogmanay and restrictions were placed on the number of people they could invite for private house parties.

‘It was clear that there was support for Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations, but with a revised format’

“Through our citywide conversation with residents, businesses and stakeholders last year, it was clear that there was overwhelming support for the continuation of Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations in the capital, but with a revised format,” Adam Mcvey, the SNP leader of Edinburgh council, said.

“I’m confident that by acting on residents’ feedback, we can remain the home of Hogmanay and ensure our Christmas events [continue] in a way that balances residents’ needs and aspirations [in future],” he added.