Ryde may not be so merry and bright this Christmas season after decorations in the town have been pared back.
A decision was made last night (Monday) by Ryde Town Council to cut back on the lights and Christmas trees it usually provides around the town.
The reduction has been put down to issues with the location of Christmas trees and the poor condition of some of the lighting fixtures.
Most failed, were unusable or needed replacing
The town council had spent £39,000 on star lighting that was in place for two seasons but, according to the clerk Lisa Dyer, most had failed, were unusable and needed replacing.
Ms Dyer said it was a huge cost for the council as virtually all of the equipment needed replacing and the facilities and assets sub-committee had decided not to buy more, especially so soon after the council bought the last load.
Investigating use of ex-hire stock
The committee would instead investigate the use of ex-hire stock to provide some lighting in the town and allow time for other ideas, such as floodlighting St Thomas’ Church and concentrating lighting on Union Street and Cross Street.
In previous years, trees at St Thomas’ Square and Town Square had been vandalised, with baubles removed and smashed.
Certain parts of town improved
It was agreed instead that certain areas of the town, such as the square by the Co-op, would be improved with lighting and features to provide photo opportunities.
A walk around the town took place last month to discuss all options, which are still being investigated.
A working group has also been set up to explore new ways of delivering festive lighting and will report back to the council with its recommendations.
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
Image: freestocks under CC BY 2.0
