Funding sought for road illuminations

Hoteliers on Charnley Road have been called to an '˜urgent' meeting to discuss the future of the street's illuminations.
Charnley Road illuminations. Picture by Gerard WalshCharnley Road illuminations. Picture by Gerard Walsh
Charnley Road illuminations. Picture by Gerard Walsh

Residents were sent a letter this week revealing the lights would be switched off as of Wednesday night.

A meeting to discuss future funding of the lights will be held at the Lawton Hotel on Monday.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Local hotelier Gerard Walsh said: “When the lights were set up the scheme was match-funded by Blackpool Council, and what happened was all the businesses on that street contributed.

“But some people have since then passed away or moved on.

People move in from elsewhere and assume the lights are council-run, but they’re not. They’re community run.

“We are hoping to get more businesses involved in the upkeep of the lights because the numbers have dwindled.”

The illuminations, which consist of rows of lights and the words ‘Welcome to Charnley Road’, were unveiled in 2009 after hoteliers and business owners approached town hall bosses for help in transforming the area.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The funding for the lights is currently supported by several residents on the street.

Lauren Goodman, manager of the King’s Cross Hotel, said: “I think the lights work really well for the area because it helps people find us when we are all lit up, and it gives us more of a community feel.

“I’m sure everyone will come together to help keep funding them.”

Talbot ward councillor Ian Coleman said: “It would be a great shame if funding cannot be found for the illuminations on Charnley Road because they have done so well over the years, and hopefully it has brought in extra business for the area.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“I understand a meeting will take place early next week in which I hope this situation is settled.”

Can you help with the upkeep of the Charnley Road illuminations? Get in touch with The Gazette on (01253) 361772.