Bangor: Housing Executive make U-turn on bonfire protections

In east Belfast, the cost of boarding up windows at Tullycarnet Library, which is close to a bonfire, is not yet known.

Libraries NI has confirmed that similar “precautionary works” two years ago cost £5,700.

The work is paid for by Libraries NI.

Dr Jonny Byrne from Ulster University has carried out research into bonfires in Northern Ireland.

He says there are around 280 each year.

“Most of them, by and large, pass off without incident. There are a small number that raise attention.

“Thirty years ago, bonfires were synonymous with paramilitary shows of strength, large bouts of sectarianism, public disorder. Now across Northern Ireland, we’re in a slightly different place.”

While most bonfires are lit on 11 July, some are set ablaze the day before.