In a statement released by Leeds City Council, the rising costs of electricity, gas and fuel has been cited as the main reason.
After much anticipation building up about the turning of the seasons and pending Bonfire Night celebrations, Leeds City Council has confirmed that there won’t be any council-led celebrations this year.
Announced this morning, the council have said “The decision has been taken due to significant budget pressures faced by the council and the current cost of living pressures on local residents which are having a significant impact on the council’s demand for services and support”.
The increase in the cost of electricity, gas and fuel as well as the cost of restarting the annual event is said to cost in excess of £200,000.
The council have said that this has resulted in ” the decision to cancel the displays has been taken due to the need to identify any non-essential spend.”
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Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for public health and active lifestyles, has commented on the announcement:
“It is obviously very disappointing for residents that bonfire and firework events cannot restart this year, however the council must work hard on cutting all non-essential spend in the current financial climate.
“We certainly did not take this decision lightly, and we know that this news will come as a real disappointment to many people, and this disappointment is something that we share.
“The council continues to be committed to working with partners to ensure that significant community and cultural events will still be able to take place later this budget year and in the run up to Christmas.”
Feature Image- Unsplash
