A break with tradition for Ware's Christmas Lanterns

Ware’s time-honoured Christmas lanterns have been a feature of the festive season in our town for many years.
In 2022, the results from Ware Town Council’s Residents Survey showed that 63% of respondents were in favour of retaining the lanterns over new decorations. Sadly, even with this positive feedback it became apparent that before too long the lanterns would be beyond repair and replacing them or finding other suitable options would be necessary.
A seasonal lighting survey in December 2023 by the licencing authority identified compliance issues with the lanterns and how they are installed on buildings. This hastened the need for the lights to be withdrawn from use and they will not return for Christmas 2024.
As a result, we sought external advice, undertook several surveys and acquired estimates for installing a new scheme that would involve similar strings of lights fixed to buildings along the High Street and surrounding areas. The conclusion was that the lanterns cannot be repaired, replaced or replicated. There is not a modern equivalent for town-wide building lights that meet the conditions and infrastructure requirements of Section 178 of the Highways Act 1980 (that covers festive lighting in town centres) and professional lighting guidance.

Mayor of Ware, Cllr Martin Butcher commented,

“I am desperately disappointed that we can’t bring the Christmas lanterns back to Ware this year. I’ve always loved them and they’ve been a big part of my Christmas for as long as I can remember. I have argued for years on the Council that we have to keep them. But, we have to comply with modern safety standards. So, sadly, and to my great regret, we have to find a new way to celebrate Christmas in Ware.”

The town council is working on new Christmas displays for 2024 that are impactful but adhere to safety standards. This will involve lighting selected buildings, more festive set pieces like Ware Bear dotted around the town centre and other installations that bring Christmas cheer and provide the perfect backdrop for seasonal photos.
We will be requesting feedback from residents early next year on what features or decorations we should consider adding to our streets in future years to make our town centre an even more beautiful and festive place to enjoy.
In the meantime, you are welcome to contact [email protected].