The controversial Bright Lights in Botanic festival has been cancelled by Belfast City Council after widespread criticism of the event's negative effects on local neighbourhoods and users of Botanic Gardens.
Minutes of this month’s full council meeting reveal that during a committee discussion held away from public scrutiny, elected representatives voted not to have the council host the festival again, despite having previously agreed with the organisers for it to be held again in Botanic Gardens during Winter 2022-3 and Winter 2023-24
The event illuminated the public park with a trail involving more than 18,000 bulbs, 25,000 metres of neon tubes, 10,000 metres of tree lighting and 160 lanterns, all soundtracked by Christmas themed music.
