The steering groups of Barrhead’s Business Improvement District (BID) has set its sights on bringing the seasonal spirit back to the town.

The plan was documented in the minutes of the group’s latest meeting, which also noted that two out of three shoppers in Barrhead are regularly using town centre shops.

The lack of festive lighting on the Main Street has been a point of contention for many residents who look with envy at other neighbouring towns during the winter months.

However that is all set to change with plans finally in motion to bring a Christmas market, lights and even live music to the town.

At the latest meeting of the steering group, chaired by New Yorker owner Paul Santi, also heard that 78 per cent of shoppers use the town centre shops up to three times a week.

However, shoppers also said they feel “unsafe” in the town.

They heard: “Of the people that we surveyed, 76 per cent lived in the town with a substantial 77 per cent stating shopping as being the main reason for their visit and 81% used Barrhead town centre for convenience shopping generally.

“People said that the worst things about Barrhead were the range of shops and services and feeling unsafe.

“However 78 per cent stated they visited the town centre daily or two to three times per week which is a great indicator of how well the local population support their town centre.

“We will analyse the report when it comes through and create a simple document to show business and residents, and ask for feedback on what information we plan to use to build our business plan.” However, the biggest news for Barrhead residents will be the revelation that the festive spirit could soon return.

Giffnock and Clarkston, for example, have sparkling town centres that add a festive feel to the Christmas shopping experience.

The BID is currently at the proposal stage.

Similar BIDs have already proved to be a success in Giffnock and Clarkston with the latter having recently renewed its five-year business strategy.

The BID framework has been used to enhance town centres, tourism or business parks with successful examples bringing a range of improvements such as better safety and security measures, community events, marketing and loyalty schemes, all of which can drive footfall and attract more investment.