Christmas Lights in Downswood

As a non-political public body, Downswood Parish Council is committed to upholding the law and ensuring the safety of all residents and visitors. In accordance with statutory Health and Safety obligations, and following due process, the Council wishes to clarify its position regarding this year’s festive lighting.

Ownership of the lamp posts within the parish rests legally with Kent County Council (KCC), except in certain areas where lamp posts remain under the temporary stewardship of Bellway until formal adoption by KCC is complete. Regardless of ownership status, all lamp posts intended to bear seasonal decorations must undergo official inspection to confirm their structural capacity and compliance with safety regulations.

This testing—commissioned annually by the Parish Council and conducted by KCC at the Council’s expense—has now been completed for Downswood. The outcome is unequivocal: KCC has formally advised that the lampposts cannot safely accommodate both flags and Christmas lights simultaneously. Where festive lighting is the preferred option, flags must be removed to ensure safe installation and legal compliance.

Accordingly, Downswood Parish Council respectfully requests that the owners of any flags currently affixed to lampposts arrange for their removal at the earliest opportunity. Should this not occur within the necessary timeframe, the Council’s appointed contractors will proceed to remove the flags in order to facilitate the lawful and safe display of Christmas lights. All removed flags will be carefully stored and made available for collection by their respective owners.

We appreciate the community’s understanding and cooperation in this matter, which reflects our shared commitment to public safety, legal integrity, and the spirit of the season’.

Downswood Parish Council

'Caring for our Community'