Newton Aycliffe fireworks display 'resurrection' hope
A Newton Aycliffe fireworks display which was cancelled after an increase in visitors raised "serious" safety concerns could go ahead this year.
Safety officers advised Great Aycliffe Town Council to cancel the 2013 event after it became "too large" to manage.
The council hopes it can now be "resurrected", after plans were drawn up to help control congestion.
The County Durham Safety Advisory Group (SAG) will have the final say on whether the display can go ahead.
Popularity of the event at Oakleaf Leisure Centre rose after nearby displays in the county were cancelled.
The event, which had been held for about 30 years, was attracting nearly 16,000 visitors.
Organisers feared they were unable to "safely manage" the display last year, following the large attendance in November 2012.
A meeting was held with SAG, which raised issues including controlling numbers and traffic management.
Town clerk Andrew Bailey said the council had made plans to control congestion, including increased security, barriers and lighting.
The event would be restricted to residents, using a ticket or wristband system.
Mr Bailey said: "I think people will be pleased to have an organised display back on.
"Hopefully by restricting it to residents it will run more smoothly and people should be able to enjoy the display."