The cost of electricity to power festive lighting in local communities will continue to be covered by Aberdeenshire Council, after a new approach was agreed by councillors.
Members of the Infrastructure Services Committee (including me) gave the go-ahead to a new policy aimed at ensuring a reasonable, consistent and safe approach to requests from community groups.
However councillors decided not to take up the option of charging for electricity, as set out in the officers’ report. The cost to the council will be about £11,000 a year, which should reduce in time as more and more lights change to LED.
This was something that was never going to find favour among councillors.
Hanging baskets, banners and bunting are also covered by the new rules, as well as attachments to street lighting columns, such as signs.
We also agreed that the council would continue to carry out structural inspections of lamp posts. Officers had suggested that communities could take over that responsibility where they wished to erect festive lights.
There is more information at https://online.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/apps/news/release.aspx?newsid=5007
Hi Ian
I have thought for a couple of years about getting involved in Newtonhill Christmas lighting.
Could you direct me to the right people please?
Thanks
David
Well I reckon that Portlethen Community Council do a good job with the Xmas tree etc., but in general does every council in Scotland not want to keep the place tidy for the tourists coming Flower Baskets in the summer add to the pleasant look of a place.
Might get tricky if one went further into. !!!!!