Causeway Coast and Glens Council Calls For Working Group On Festive Lighting And Christmas Tree Provision

Causeway Coast and Glens Council have proposed establishing a dedicated working group to address concerns around festive lighting and Christmas tree provision across the borough.

At this month’s Environmental Services Committee meeting, DUP Alderman Sharon McKillop tabled a motion calling on council officers to consult members on potential lighting and tree options for the 2025 festive season. She reported receiving negative feedback from Bushmills residents, who raised concerns over broken decorations and issues with the town’s Christmas tree.

“I would agree that it just wasn’t up to the standard they wanted,” Alderman McKillop said. “There may be other areas with similar comments or a desire to discuss their own lighting and trees, which is why I brought this item forward.”

A council officer confirmed that, prior to Christmas, the Council had already agreed to produce a paper on next year’s festive lighting. “We are proposing to bring some options in the next couple of months, with more details to follow,” they said.

DUP Councillor Dawn Huggins drew attention to storm damage sustained by trees in several coastal areas, including Castlerock, and urged officials to consider installing artificial trees in certain locations to better withstand Northern Ireland’s challenging weather.

Alliance Councillor Lee Kane agreed that a Council paper is necessary, but suggested further discussion through a workshop or working group, which should include both the Environmental Services and Leisure and Development Committees.

“When thinking about the format of festivities, it shouldn’t be limited to one committee alone,” he said. “A joint working group with representatives from both would be the best way forward.”