Every town centre in Havering will get lit Christmas trees and street light decorations after the council secured funding from sponsorship
One East London borough will be lit up in a beautiful display of festive cheer this Christmas. Every town centre in Havering will get lit Christmas trees and street light decorations after the council secured funding from sponsors. The council said that it was unable to fully fund the Christmas lights, lit trees and events this year as it needed to make urgent savings.
Three businesses have now stepped in – Marlborough Highways, Elm Site Services and AJS – to help make up the shortfall so Havering residents can still get into the Christmas spirit. The council is also expecting more sponsors to be announced in the near the future. The sponsorship funding will be topped up with Council money from the Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) – to ensure all town centres are able to celebrate Christmas once again.
Councillor Ray Morgon, Leader of Havering Council, said: “It is great news that we have managed to secure the sponsorship needed to support Christmas in our town centres. My sincere thanks to Marlborough Highways and the two other local businesses Elm Site Services and AJS who have also stepped in. Along with additional money from our Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) –together we have ensured Havering can still celebrate Christmas.
“Due to the continued financial challenges the council faces – it was clear that we were sadly unable to fully fund Christmas lights, lit trees and events this year because of the urgent need to make savings. We have no choice due to the year-on-year Government reductions in funding and the escalating costs in social care and homelessness.
“However, I know how important it is for our town centres and communities to be able to celebrate the run-up to Christmas and also for our high streets to look and feel festive to encourage people to shop local this Christmas. It continues to be a challenging time for local businesses and as part of our Keep it Local campaign – we will always do all we can to support our local and independent retailers. I am delighted that once again all our town centres will be able to uphold our festive traditions in Havering this Christmas.”
Nick Reading, Operations Director, Marlborough Highways, said: “Marlborough Highways has a longstanding history working alongside Havering Council to serve and support this vibrant borough. This year, we are once again thrilled to contribute towards the Council’s festive celebrations, helping bring holiday cheer to residents and visitors alike.
“We understand how shared spaces can unite communities, particularly during the season of giving, and are proud to help keep Havering’s much-loved traditions alive.”
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