Council chiefs say the annual event has become a ‘health and safety concern’
Stock image of Christmas lights.
The Christmas lights switch-on event in Bromsgrove High Street has been cancelled for 2025 over safety fears.
Bromsgrove District Council said the annual event had become a “health and safety concern” after becoming too popular and overcrowded.
But despite axing the event, lights will still be turned on in the town centre from the middle of November.
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Coun 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.”
Stock image of Christmas lights.
The portfolio holder for leisure added: “After listening to the experts, and with limited space available and the forecast number of attendees, we’ve had to make the difficult decision to cancel the light switch-on event.”
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Coun Sue Baxter, deputy leader at the council, said the decision to cancel the event was “tough”.
She said: “While we realise many residents and visitors will be disappointed, their safety is paramount.
“This is what was at the forefront of our minds when making this tough decision.
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“Rest assured there will still be plenty to see across the district this Christmas time.” The authority will be releasing its Winter events postcard showcasing what’s on over the coming months across the district.