Lisburn Light Festival

October 28, 2020

At the October meeting of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, it was decided that the Lisburn Light festival would proceed in line with previous years, including new installations for Dundonald village.

Chairman of the Development Committee, Alderman Jim Dillon MBE said;

“The Light Festival began in 2018 as part of our city regeneration plan to support the economy through investment in the city centre and surrounding areas. This plan includes investment in public realm, village renewal projects, shop-front grants and other projects to add to an enhanced visitor experience.

Christmas is the most important time of year for many local retailers. The Lisburn Light Festival has played an important role in revitalising our city and bringing about increased footfall and spending in our retail areas during the Christmas period. It is a unique attraction that can be enjoyed safely, in family groups or bubbles. I am pleased that this year’s plan also includes a new installation and upgraded lighting in Dundonald in line with our commitment to extend the festivities across the Council area.

We continue to work in partnership with businesses and other organisations to ensure our retail areas are welcoming and attractive places to shop. During the pandemic, by directly administering grants and supporting access to other funding, we have ensured that local businesses have been able to access over £1m in support packages to help them deal with the current challenges and protect jobs.

I would remind everyone to be mindful of the health and safety guidance and I encourage you to shop local and shop safely. Our businesses value your support.”

The Mayor, Councillor Nicholas Trimble highlighted the importance of the festive period for families and communities and added;

“The Covid-19 pandemic has created great challenges for all of us. It has undoubtedly created health and wellbeing issues as many of us continue to juggle work, business and family life whilst trying to protect ourselves and our loved ones from the virus.

Christmas can be a difficult time for some of us, but it also represents hope and is a time for family and celebration. I truly believe that we are all in need of something to look forward to, especially since so many of our normal community events have had to be cancelled. In a time when mental health issues are increasing, I feel that it is incumbent upon the Council to promote a sense of normality through festive cheer.

Over the past few months we have carefully developed a Christmas programme which we hope will support businesses and create safe ways to celebrate across our communities. All activities will be carefully considered in line with the Covid-19 restrictions and many events will be delivered virtually. The health and safety of everyone is our first priority.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, we have provided over £86,0000 in funding for local communities in the form of support grants and to facilitate safely run community events. We have delivered around 11,000 food parcels to date and have taken hundreds of calls through our community and business support helplines. We also continue deliver critical services at this challenging time.”

Details of Lisburn & Castlereagh’s programme of Christmas activities will be available shortly.