The Peterborough Evening Telegraph
Real Christmas tree welcomed back to city
Council looking to sell fake tree before it is scrapped
The first real Christmas Tree in Peterborough’s Cathedral Square for four years arrived on the back of a lorry, as the city prepares for the big festive switch on.
The 40 foot spruce arrived on Tuesday night, with a team of six men putting it in place.
Since 2014, a controversial fake tree has been the centrepiece of Peterborough’s festive celebrations - but after residents spoke out against the decoration, the £40,000 metal artificial tree was ‘retired’ a year earlier than originally planned.
More than 600 lights will be wrapped around the £6,200 tree this week before the big switch on, which is being held on Friday.
Councillor Steve Allen, Peterborough City Council’s cabinet member for recreation, said: “I think the new tree looks great and can’t wait to see it decorated and lit up for the first time at the Christmas Lights switch-on event on Friday. This promises to be a spectacular occasion that all the family will enjoy.
“We decided this year to opt for a real tree as many residents have told us that they miss the presence of a more traditional tree in the heart of the city. We have already received several positive comments from members of the public.
“We are determined to fulfil our commitment to offer a fantastic festive atmosphere for the city this year. As well as the switch-on event, there will be a spectacular Christmas Market running until December 28.”
The Christmas light switch on will take place at 7pm on Friday. There will be an afternoon of entertainment, starting at 3pm, in the lead up to the main event.
The council is now looking for a buyer for the fake tree and if a new owner can’t be found, it will be scrapped.
It is currently being stored in Halifax, as no other locations in Peterborough were deemed suitable for the tree. Storage and scrappage was included in the £40,000 cost.
‘I can’t wait to see the tree decorated’
Cllr Steve Allen