THE borough's big fireworks bash at Himley Hall and Park will not include a bonfire this year, Dudley Council has announced.
The popular fireworks event, the biggest council-run fireworks show in the country, is set to go ahead in the hall grounds on Saturday November 2 and will include a 30-minute pyrotechnics display timed to music.
As well as the fireworks display, the event will include a giant funfair, live entertainment, night market, food and drinks and Heart West Midlands Radio.
But the event this year will be missing the big bonfire that has traditionally been built in the grounds and that is synonymous with Guy Fawkes Night celebrations.
Dudley Council has said there will be no bonfire this time due to "difficulties in getting pallet wood over the last few years".
Thousands of tickets have already been sold for this year's event though, with VIP and premium tickets going fast. People can still book online at www.himleyhallandpark.co.uk
Limited premium viewing area tickets are available with street entertainment, exclusive refreshment stalls including alcohol sales (which will not be sold in the wider park) and elevated views across the lake for the fireworks display.
Councillor Phil Atkins, Dudley Council's cabinet member for corporate strategy, said: “Our teams are working hard to aerate the grounds and improve drainage ahead of our fireworks event.
“This year, we are putting down more trackway around the site and near the markets, as this will help to reduce mud being churned up by the vehicles moving around the site.
“That said, as always, we’re reminding people to choose practical footwear when attending this outdoor event.
“The council is also offering a sensory room in the hall, which is designed to offer a quiet space to children with additional needs.”
The sensory room is a free of charge service for ticket holders, but it is subject to availability and must be booked in advance by emailing Himley.fireworks@dudley.gov.uk
VIP tickets provide access to the hall, including two rooms with seating, a hard standing area on the terrace (with views across the south lawns and lake for the fireworks), a private bar and indoor toilets. Standard adult tickets start from £12, with tickets available from £7 for children aged five to 15.
Shuttle buses from Diamond and National Express will run across the borough for £1 each way, payable by card only, with full information to be released closer to the event.
A limited park and ride service will be available at Col's car boot sale field costing £8 per vehicle to be paid on the day by card only, with free shuttle buses running to the park. Spaces cannot be pre-booked and are on a first come, first served basis.
There is limited car parking on site at Himley Hall at £10 per car on a first come-first served basis.
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