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.