Barrhead residents are taking a dim view of the lack of lights on the town’s Christmas tree.

Although the impressive tree was put in place outside the Asda store three weeks ago, its lights have yet to sparkle.

Bosses at Business Improvement District (BID) organisation All About Barrhead, which organised the town’s festive decorations, have pinned the blame on adverse weather conditions.

However, the lack of lights has dulled some people’s Christmas spirit, with several locals disappointed that the tree is still to be lit.

Rosaleen Reilly, chair of Barrhead Community Council, said: “Although there are lights elsewhere in the town, it’s very disappointing that the tree hasn’t been lit.”

The giant Christmas tree was installed in time for Barrhead’s Winter Wonderland celebrations on December 1 but the team at All About Barrhead have since hit a number of stumbling blocks in their efforts to switch on its lights.

Andy Dunlop, BID manager, told the Barrhead News: “The tree was originally supposed to be installed on Tuesday, November 27, but due to adverse weather in the area, this was delayed until Thursday, November 29.

“Although the tree was installed on this date, again due to the weather our installers could not safely use the cherry-picker to install the lights.

“Due to the ongoing adverse weather and backlog of installations faced by our contractor, we are at their mercy as to when these can be installed.”

It is understood there has also been an issue with the power source for the tree lights, due to water damage in the area next to Asda, which led to safety concerns.

Mr Dunlop added: “Safety is paramount in everything we do and, until we can have the lights installed safely, for the public as well as contractors, we’re a bit stuck. We are aware it’s disappointing but are working to try to rectify the situation.”

Barrhead residents are no strangers to being left in the dark when it comes to problems with the town’s Christmas tree. 

Similar issues last year meant the tree was only lit a few days before December 25.
All About Barrhead hopes to be able to resolve the latest problems this week and have the lights on for Christmas.