"The north of the city is often overlooked": Cosham councillor 'saddened' fireworks display won't return to north of city

A councillor in the north of Portsmouth has expressed disappointment that there are no big fireworks displays planned in the north of the city this year, after the King George V Playing Fields display was moved to Southsea in 2023.

The city’s main display used to take place on the playing fields in Cosham, but stopped being held after new artificial pitches were installed in the playing fields in 2023. The display now takes place on Southsea Common instead.

Cllr Lamara Fudge, councillor for the Cosham ward, said: “I am very saddened that Cosham has lost its fireworks display, especially as residents were promised it would return following the completion of the football pitch works at King George V Playing Fields.

“I used to attend the display with my children and in-laws, and it was always a fantastic family event that brought the community together. I know many residents who are disappointed by the loss of the event and feel that there is now a lack of community celebrations in the north of the city.

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“Many residents have told me they feel that the north of the city is often overlooked when it comes to community events compared to the south. While there are many excellent events held elsewhere in Portsmouth, not everyone is able to travel to Southsea to take part in them.

“I believe we should be working to bring more community events to the north of the city so that all residents have opportunities to come together and enjoy local celebrations. Community events play an important role in bringing people together, reducing isolation, and creating a sense of pride in our local area.”

A Portsmouth City Council spokesperson said: “We recognise that residents across Portsmouth want to be able to enjoy events close to where they live, including those in the north of the city. Unfortunately, a full assessment of potential sites found there is currently no suitable location in the north that can safely accommodate a fireworks event of this scale.

“King George V Playing Fields was considered, but it was agreed by Full Council that the site is not suitable for the event. Southsea Common is an established location for large-scale events and provides the space needed to host the fireworks display safely.”