Bonfires pile up despite warning over wildlife risks

DANGEROUS bonfires are being built in a city beauty spot despite residents claiming to have complained to the police and council.

Already piles of wood, branches, mattresses and anything that will burn are cropping up across an area of woodland near Holyrood Park.

Residents who live near the idyllic Meadowfield Park said that despite several phone-calls, no-one was taking any action.

They say if the bonfires are lit where they currently stand under scores of trees, at best the trees would be wrecked and wildlife killed or driven out, and at worst a major fire could spread through the woods.

Julie Allan, 64, who regularly walks though the park, said: "I've phoned the council, the police and the fire brigade to warn them.

"So far I've had no joy and they don't appear to be interested. I'm worried that, despite all these warnings, nothing will be done until these fires are lit and the damage is done. Then we'll have the fire brigade and everyone out when it could all be prevented by just moving the fires to a more open space."

At least three bonfire have been piled up in recent days in the woodland, which is home to numerous animal and bird species and flowers.

Ms Allan added: "There are birds and squirrels there whose habitat will be completely ruined, not to mention the damage to the trees. I've spoken to a few people about this and they are all in agreement that this is a danger."

Craigentinny/Duddingston councillor and former city leader Councillor Ewan Aitken said: "We all love bonfire night, but this is just dangerous.

In years past we have had success in removing dangerous bonfires before they have been lit, and I will be contacting the council."

Another resident, who lives in nearby Ulster Crescent, who wished to remain anonymous, added: "Every year this causes us a concern. Some just use the woods to store the wood under shelter, but if you go out for a walk on the days after Bonfire Night the damage to the trees is obvious, and to the wildlife that has been driven out as a result."

A council spokeswoman said it had no record of Ms Allan's complaint, adding: "Bonfires present a particular problem for agencies and communities across the city during October and November. We would ask residents to report anyone they see dumping waste illegally in the vicinity of bonfires by calling 0131-529 3030, providing as much information as they can."

A police spokesman added: "This is a responsibility for the council while the fires are unlit, and more the fire brigade when they are lit."

HOT TICKETS

TICKETS have gone on sale for Edinburgh's official Bonfire Night celebration.

Meadowbank Stadium will be playing host to the popular family event on November 5.

Tickets cost £4.50 each, although they are subject to a £2 booking fee if reserved in advance.

There is no bonfire or Guy but visitors are treated to entertainment before and after the fireworks.

Further details about the event, which starts at 6.30pm, are available by ringing 0131-661 5351.

The council has issued advice to businesses putting on displays. It says:

"No pack-aging, waste or rubbish should be left anywhere on the premises or immediately outside; refuse should be disposed of in metal bins with closed lids, preferably locked; arrange regular/frequent collection of refuse through the council or contractor."