Machynlleth High Street Left Without Christmas Lights

Published: 28 November 2025 Friday. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

Residents of Machynlleth will have to go without Christmas lights along the town’s high street this year due to a dispute over installation costs. Machynlleth Rotary Club, which has long been responsible for putting up the festive lights, said Powys County Council’s fees had become too high and that several lights failed to work last year.

David Hennighan, a member of the Rotary Club and owner of Hennighan’s Fish & Chip Shop, explained that the cost of installing and removing the decorations “quadrupled” compared with previous years. “We were quoted ridiculous amounts for putting the lights up and down, something that takes probably five to six hours… What they asked us to pay last year was £1,600 plus VAT. In the past, we’ve paid £400–£500 for exactly the same job,” he said.

The club said it had reluctantly decided not to provide Christmas lights this year, despite receiving generous donations from local businesses in the past to improve the display. Hennighan expressed disappointment that Machynlleth would be left without festive cheer, noting that nearby towns like Newtown and Welshpool will have large public light-switching events.

Powys County Council responded, stating that the Rotary Club had not requested a quotation for this year and emphasized that the club is not obliged to use the council for installation. The council confirmed that decorations are managed by the North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agency, and any replacements or repairs require agency approval. They also said the Rotary Club could hire any qualified electrical contractor that meets the necessary safety and regulatory standards.

While the town will have a Christmas tree and lights switched on at an event on 29 November, the absence of lights along the high street leaves a notable gap in festive decoration. Residents and local business owners have expressed frustration, citing the importance of lights for community spirit and holiday atmosphere.

This dispute highlights the challenges small towns face in balancing costs, safety regulations, and maintaining cherished local traditions, leaving some communities “in the dark” when it comes to festive celebrations.