Three quarters of Dutch councils will not introduce extra measures to restrict the use of fireworks during the New Year celebrations, according to research by the NOS and regional broadcasters.

Out of the 264 councils that took part in the survey, 55 said they would create a fireworks-free zone, primarily around nursing homes, hospitals, petting zoos and shopping centres.

But while four new councils are bringing in firework-free zones, Korendijk in Zuid Holland is removing its restrictions because local nursing home residents say they missed out on the fun.

Fewer councils want stricter rules for consumers as well. Just one in three would like to see a European ban on heavy-duty fireworks, compared with 56% last year. And one third also support tougher punishment for selling or setting off illegal fireworks, compared with 52% in 2015.