Oxford fireworks: 'Deep concern' remains over damage

The ground in South Park was left muddy after the 55th edition of the charity fireworks event

There remains "deep concern" following damage to a park during a Bonfire Night fireworks display.

The ground at South Park in Oxford was damaged by heavy machinery at the Round Table event on 4 November.

An inspection in December determined there had been no long-term damage to the site, Oxford City Council said.

Restoration work would involve some ground levelling and reseeding, which would take place "when the conditions allow", it added.

Oxford Round Table said since 1967 it had raised and donated more than £1m from the annual event to local charities.

It has appointed two contractors to carry out repair work to the open areas of the park and to fix damage near the trees, the council said.

'Successful fundraiser'

Anna Eavis, chief executive of Oxford Preservation Trust, said the trust held a covenant over South Park "in order to protect the park in its natural state for all those who live here and visit to enjoy".

"We remain deeply concerned about the damage caused as a result of last year's fireworks event," she added.

She said the trust was liaising with the council "as to how future events are organised and managed within the park to avoid such damage happening again".

Councillor Chewe Munkonge, deputy leader and cabinet member for leisure and parks, said the authority remained "concerned" about the damage.

However, he said the event had taken place "successfully for fifty years" and last year saw more than 25,000 tickets sold.

"We appreciate the patience of our stakeholders and communities who have worked with us to develop a plan, and while we wait for the ground conditions to be ready," he added.

"We hope that work can start soon."

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