Council’s extra cash thrown at improving Christmas lights in Grantham would be ‘better spent elsewhere’

The council has announced plans to improve Christmas lights in Grantham this year – but some believe the money would be better spent elsewhere. Residents and visitors were critical of the town’s festive efforts last year which has led to South Kesteven District Council making a promise to improve the lights display in 2023 and beyond.

The annual budget for Christmas lights is currently set at £17,500, met from the Grantham Special Expense Area fund. Because the proposals exceed current budget levels, the council agreed to request £30,800 of the district’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund allocation for one-off infrastructure costs and to hire displays from Gala Lights for the next three Christmas periods.

Some Grantham shoppers feel there are other issues which need to be tackled before Christmas lights. Tony Gale, from Stamford, said: “I don’t think it’s going to bring anyone to Grantham. You could spend the money on brightening up a few dead shops and making it more attractive. There’s a general decline everywhere now with online shopping.”

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Lisa Freeman, from Grantham, said: “I don’t think Christmas lights are that important at the minute. You’ve got much more important issues such as homelessness. The money could be spent elsewhere.”

Grantham resident, Jo Day, added: “I think the money would be better off spent elsewhere. The area looks a bit run down in places. There’s so many empty shops it looks like the town is closing town. I’m not bothered about Christmas lights.”

Tony Gale, from Stamford(Image: Lincolnshire Live)

Some people, including Jan Cotterill from Ancaster, were pleased to see more invested in festive displays. She said: “It wouldn’t hurt. You go into Sleaford an it’s beautiful with all the trees lit up and everything. It makes a hell of a difference. But then again I love Christmas, I’d have my lights up all year round.”