- Council deeply disappointed to announce cancellation of reimagined community event
- Return to Castle Grounds not possible due to capacity restraints and safety
- Negative response to council decision undermines local business partnership and long-term sustainability of event
Tamworth Borough Council regrettably announces the cancellation of the planned annual fireworks display scheduled for Saturday 1 November 2025.
The decision follows significant negative community reaction to the new ticketed format, which has made the event financially unviable for the local business partners who were set to deliver it.
The council had worked collaboratively with local event organisers to create a sustainable future for the beloved community tradition, moving from the previous free event that cost the authority upwards of £70,000 annually to a self-funded model that would have allowed continued investment in essential community services.
Safety requirements prevent return to castle grounds
"We are deeply disappointed to bring this news to residents," said Councillor Lewis Smith, portfolio holder for people services, engagement, leisure and heritage. "We explored every option to maintain this cherished tradition while meeting our obligations under new safety legislation and responding to residents' consistent feedback to prioritise spending on essential services over events. Given the challenging financial position local authorities find themselves in, difficult decisions have had to be made.
“The abuse directed towards local companies who were trying to provide something for their local community is disheartening. We’ve increasingly seen negativity on social media directed to the council and councillors, but seeing vitriol aimed at small businesses is very upsetting.
"Unfortunately, returning the event to the castle grounds is simply not possible. The size and scale of the Tamworth fireworks event is unique. The display has grown tremendously in popularity over the years, attracting many thousands of visitors. But the ever-growing numbers, increasing costs and our commitment to applying the principles of Martyn’s Law means the location is no longer suitable. The safety of our community must always come first."
Partnership approach aimed to support local business
The new format had been designed to provide enhanced entertainment while creating opportunities for local businesses to thrive. The planned event would have featured live tribute acts, local bands, street food vendors and access to fairground attractions, alongside the main fireworks display.
"We genuinely believed this approach offered the best way forward – keeping the tradition alive while supporting local enterprise and redirecting council resources to vulnerable communities," added Councillor Smith. "It's disappointing that the strength of opposition has made this community-focused business model unworkable."
The council had put measures in place to ensure accessibility, including free Park & Ride services and free family tickets for very low-income families.
Looking ahead
Tamworth Borough Council will continue to support community events delivered by local organisations and businesses.