Leader Calls For Rethink On Christmas

Update (published: Thursday August 21)

The Leader of Bromsgrove District Council is calling for an urgent review of the decision to cancel the historic lights event so festive fun can continue in the town.

Due to its popularity the lights switch on event was re-evaluated as the amount of people turning up was raised by health and safety experts

Council Leader Karen May is determined that the High Street event will be reconsidered, with health and safety in mind, but will be continued to be enjoyed by residents and businesses.

She said: “Like hundreds of people I look forward to this event each year and I recognise the economic benefits to our High Street which boasts many independents.

“I can assure residents, visitors and businesses alike that, whilst health & safety concerns are paramount, we recognise how loved this event is by so many people.

“Christmas is certainly not cancelled in our town centre but it will have to be done in a different format to what has traditionally happened.

“I feel we announced the fact there would be changes prematurely before finalising what the alternative would be.

“Rest assured myself and the Cabinet will be working with our officers to ensure a packed programme of festive fun will run alongside St John’s Market on November 22.

“While a main stage may not be a part of those plans our High Street will, as always be filled with music, entertainment and lots of Christmas cheer.

“I am hoping the official lights turn on will happen that day too and I look forward to sharing the details with everyone as soon as possible.

“In the meantime please save the date – and I look forward to seeing you there.”

Original release (published: Wednesday August 20)

Residents' Safety Forces Event Decision

A date has been set for the Christmas lights to be switched on in the centre of Bromsgrove.

But due to health and safety concerns around ever-increasing crowds, there will be no switch on event in the High Street.

A full programme of ‘Festive Fun’ has been drawn up and will soon be revealed across council platforms.

Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Cllr Bernard McEldowney, said: “As the event has grown over the years it has become more and more popular, to such an extent that it has become a health and safety concern.

“However, after listening to the experts, and with limited space available and the forecasted number of attendees, we’ve had to make the difficult decision to cancel the light switch on event.”

The Christmas lights will be installed in mid-November and turned on soon after.

Deputy Leader of Bromsgrove District Council, Cllr Sue Baxter, said: “While we realise many residents and visitors will be disappointed, their safety is paramount and this is what was at the forefront of our minds when making this tough decision.

“Rest assured there will still be plenty to see across the District this Christmas time.”

The Council will also be releasing its Winter events postcard showcasing what’s on over the coming months across the District.

Keep an eye out on the events page on our website Activities and Events and social media platforms for details.