Housing Association Seeks to Restrict Resident’s Christmas Light Display

Management at a housing association has drawn comparisons to Scrooge after attempting to impose limitations on a Christmas lights arrangement. This follows complaints from some neighbours concerning light pollution, which arose when Michael Stonier activated his annual festive display in Blyth Bridge during September. Homes Plus Group informed the 21-year-old that the earliest permissible date for activating his Christmas lights was November 16, and mandated their deactivation by 22:00 GMT every evening. Mr. Stonier stated that his family perceived themselves as “victimised.” He commented, “The Christmas lights get everyone interested, it makes my community happier.” He further added, “I do it every year, dead early, and it doesn’t bother me how much the electricity is.” Mr. Stonier also mentioned, “I’ve got more to put up yet and more new decorations are coming.” The festive lights and inflatable decorations have been exhibited at Mr. Stonier’s residence on Ridgway Drive in Blythe Bridge for approximately two months, a family custom he indicated has been observed for 23 years. An email dispatched by Homes Plus Group to the family indicated, through a representative, that they had not complied with the social landlord’s demands. The email stated, “You were aware that people had complained about the light pollution and the decorations going up so early in September.” It continued, “You were aware that someone had cut the fairy lights wire which would have given you an indication of how people in your community are feeling.” The correspondence further noted that deactivating the lights by 22:00, as stipulated, would contribute to reducing the grievances. Les Clarke, the executive director of housing and care for Homes Plus Group, commented that although Christmas decorations can foster festive cheer, “there is a danger that they can become a fire hazard and cause a nuisance to neighbours if care is not taken.” The Local Democracy Reporting Service, which reports on councils and various public service entities, compiled this information. For updates, follow BBC Stoke & Staffordshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the material found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.