Christmas Lights in Haringey and Enfield

I was alerted to a BBC News investigation this morning by our friends down at Harringay Online.

It appears that across London Local Authority spending on Christmas lights and decorations has been cut this year by up to 90%, with an average reduction across all 32 London councils of 15.5%.

The biggest cut - in Islington - saw the total spend down from £138,000 last year to £11,700.

But our two local authorities Haringey and Enfield have both bucked the trend and increased spending on lighting up the area for Christmas.

Enfield was the second highest spender (behind Hackeney) with £90,000 spent on lights trees and "Illuminated swans" - an increase of almost £40,000 on last year's spend.

The biggest rise was in Haringey, up by £41,740, to £66,740.

Both councils have made an effort to "Deck the Malls" by focusing on the main shopping areas.

A Haringey council spokeswoman said: "We were happy to spend this money as part of our commitment to supporting our local traders in these difficult economic times.

"We were also keen to do everything possible to give traders in Tottenham a great Christmas after so many of them had such a difficult summer."

What do you you think of the Lights in our shopping streets? I think both Wood Green High Street and Palmers Green have looked very festive in the long dark nights.

Over at the always excellent Londonist website they have been seeking out London's best ... and worst seasonal illuminations; any nominations from around town?

Full story BBC News
Thanks to Harringay Online