A POPULAR Christmas lights event in West Lothian has been cancelled due to storm damage in the area.
Starry Nights is held in Beecraigs Country Park, near Linlithgow, attracts thousands of revellers each year as visitors walk through illuminated trees for its festive lights trail.
However, despite “dedicated efforts” to complete “extensive remediation works” following damage to the trees, the local authority announced it had to cancel this year’s event.
The council said “major recovery operations” involving tree surgeons, inspectors, rangers and contractors had taken place, but despite their best efforts the forest trail was not able to be cleared safely in time.
Organisers GC Live Limited are now seeking an agreement with West Lothian Council for their current five-year deal to be terminated early and have offered to make an “exit payment” of £30,000 to the council.
Council officers said they are actively exploring options for future events.
A spokesperson for West Lothian Council said: “Changes in market conditions, particularly due to increased storm risk, have made it impossible for event organisers, GC Live, to secure the level of insurance required to safely host the event.
“Following discussions between West Lothian Council and GC Live to explore the option of an alternative venue, it was agreed that the remaining timescales would not allow for the necessary site inspections, planning processes, or licensing to take place in time.
“Moving forward, GCLL are seeking agreement from the council that their current five year agreement can be terminated early, with immediate effect and by mutual consent.”
