Council spends on Christmas lights and decorations - Find a freedom of information request

Request

The purpose of this request is to gather data on the average figure the council spends on Christmas lights and decorations. Specifically, I am seeking information on the following:

1. The annual spend on Christmas lights per year, for the following years:

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

2. The annual spend on Christmas decorations (e.g. trees), for the following years:

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

3. The estimated energy consumption (in kWh) of the Christmas lights, for the following years:

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

If the council does not maintain separate records for the categories mentioned (e.g. Christmas lights and decorations) and instead utilizes a consolidated budget for all festive or annual decorations, please provide the total budget figure for the relevant years. If possible, provide an estimate or breakdown of the portion typically allocated to Christmas-related expenses.

Decision

I can confirm that the information requested is held by Lincolnshire County Council. I have detailed below the information that is being released to you.

1-2.

2020 - Christmas lights: £31,000

2020 - Christmas decorations (eg trees): £3,200

2021 - Christmas lights: £31,000

2021 - Christmas decorations (eg trees): £3,744

2022 - Christmas lights: £33,771

2022 - Christmas decorations (eg trees): £3,270

2023 - Christmas lights: £76,755

2023 - Christmas decorations (eg trees): £1,325

*Please note that extra lighting structures were purchased within 2023 to be used during 2024, 2025 and beyond. Projected:

2024 - Christmas lights: £44,206

2024 - Christmas decorations (eg trees): n/a

*Please note that some of the costs of these lights and decorations are offset by charging entry to light trails and displays.

3. LCC does not separate out electricity usage solely for this event or for Christmas lights or decorations

Reference number
FOI 10383761
Date request received
27/08/24
Date of decision
27/09/24