Let there be light – communities rejoice at council’s move

Mearns communities are celebrating following the news that the cost of electricity to power festive lighting will continue to be covered by Aberdeenshire Council after a vote by councillors.

Mearns SNP councillor Leigh Wilson has been campaigning against the charges since they were first proposed and welcomed the decision.

Members of the Infrastructure Services Committee (ISC) gave the go-ahead to a new policy aimed at ensuring a reasonable, consistent and safe approach to requests from community groups.

Councillors agreed the use of festive lighting, bunting, banners and hanging baskets can help encourage commercial activity in towns, add seasonal colour and help promote community events.

ISC previously considered proposals which would have seen community groups covering electricity costs for festive lights.

“I am delighted that ISC has agreed to continue funding the cost of festive lighting,” Mr Wilson said.

“I am one of the biggest believers of Christmas displays and I know how such displays can being communities together. The cost of electricity for festive lighting in Aberdeenshire is around £11,000 and that seems a small price to pay for the goodwill of communities making the effort to brighten themselves up and appear welcoming at Christmas. The excellent work communities do is clearly of benefit to the whole of Aberdeenshire and the cost is one the council should bear.”

A proposed deadline for applications has been extended to October 1 each year.