Machynlleth Cancels Christmas Lights Amid Cost Dispute

Christmas lights will not illuminate Machynlleth this year due to a dispute over installation costs. The Machynlleth Rotary Club, responsible for the festive decorations for many years, announced that the fees charged by Powys County Council for last year’s installation were excessively high. As a result, the club has “reluctantly” decided against providing Christmas lights for the town this holiday season.

David Hennighan, a member of the Rotary Club and owner of Hennighan’s Fish & Chip Shop, reported that the cost to install and then remove the lights “quadrupled” from previous years. He stated that last year’s fee amounted to £1,600 plus VAT, a significant increase from the £400 – £500 they have historically paid for the same service. Hennighan added that many of the lights failed to function properly last year due to “electrical conditions” in the lamp posts.

The Rotary Club expressed disappointment, noting that the Christmas lights have been a cherished feature in Machynlleth for many years. They pointed out that without these lights, the town will miss out on the festive atmosphere enjoyed by nearby locations such as Newtown and Welshpool, which host larger celebrations and light switch-on events. Hennighan emphasized the impact this absence will have on local businesses, stating, “Quite literally we will be left in the dark.”

In contrast to the lack of high street lights, Machynlleth plans to switch on a Christmas tree with lights at a community event on November 29, 2023. However, the absence of street decorations this year highlights a significant difference compared to other towns in the region.

A spokesperson for Powys County Council clarified that the Rotary Club had not approached them for a quotation for this year’s decoration installation. They mentioned ongoing discussions regarding reported failures with the lights and noted that any replacements would require permission from the North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agency.

The council also reminded the Rotary Club that they are not obligated to use the council for installation services. The club can hire any suitably qualified contractor, provided they meet the criteria set by the Trunk Road Agency and secure the necessary approvals.

The situation underscores a broader challenge for local organizations aiming to bring festive cheer to their communities amid rising costs and logistical hurdles. As Machynlleth prepares for the holiday season, residents will have to adapt to a Christmas without the familiar sparkle of lights along their high street.

As of now, there has been no response from Traffic Wales regarding the ongoing discussions with the Rotary Club and the council.