Walsall Council Faces Criticism Over Proposed Christmas Lights Funding Cut

Walsall Council intends to eliminate funding for Christmas lights as part of its strategy to achieve nearly £30 million in savings. The council has detailed £28.8 million in savings for the 2025-26 fiscal year, which encompass reducing school crossing patrols, moving the Leather Museum, and raising parking fees by as much as 20%. Additionally, council tax is slated to rise by 4.99%. According to the council, an additional budget deficit of £11 million exists, attributed to the high demand for social care, children’s care, transportation services for children with special educational needs, and homelessness support. A public consultation regarding these proposed reductions is scheduled to conclude on November 29. While this year’s Christmas lights are completely funded, deliberations concerning next year’s illuminations are “ongoing”. Councillor Garry Perry, the Conservative leader of the council, stated that the authority would strive to secure sponsorship for the lights from local businesses. He commented: “This funding will remain a priority, whether supported by existing partners or through contributions from multiple sponsors, even on shorter-term agreements spanning one or two years.” He added, “There are difficult challenges but we are no different to any other local authority.” Labour Councillor Simran Cheema characterized the council as “the Grinch taking Christmas away from residents.” Business proprietors in Walsall expressed that current economic conditions were already challenging, pointing to the government’s increase in National Insurance contributions for employers and the rise in the minimum wage. Chris Rogers, who owns Top Buns in Walsall, reported earning only £25 since the opening of his American-inspired cafe three months prior. He remarked: “Obviously you start a business to better yourself and your family but I’m finding it very hard at the moment.” He continued, “If you’ve got Christmas lights lighting up the centre it will attract people to come in.“I think the council should do a walk around to see if there’s anything they could do to help us.” Victoria Loxodonta, who manages The Snuggery, a Community Interest Company, acknowledged the council’s difficulties with escalating expenses. She stated: “If they can find someone to fund the lights… but then again with businesses struggling, we haven’t got the money to pay.“The only businesses that are thriving are Poundland and Primark.” Kam Braitch, proprietor of Klassic Laser Clinic, commented: “Today I haven’t had any clients at all. I just hope and pray that change will take place in Walsall.” The council leader indicated that numerous respondents to the budget consultation had endorsed the proposals to cease funding for Christmas lights, suggesting sponsorship as an alternative. He further noted: “A number of our areas have already done that including Short Heath and Pelsall.” Cheema, who represents Willenhall South as a councillor, described the budget as “half-baked” and affirmed that the Labour group would oppose it. She expressed: “I have concerns that some areas might not be able to fund raise for festive lights. Everyone is feeling the pinch including businesses.“The council constantly asking communities to do more when they are receiving less.”