Ferndown | Posted on August 28th, 2025 | return to news

Upset in Ferndown over Christmas decoration disappointment

Ferndown Town Council has confirmed it will once again be unable to put up Christmas decorations on Pennys Walk.

Residents of Ferndown were frustrated last year after the town’s popular Christmas lights and festive event were forced out of Pennys Walk due to a disagreement with managing agents working on behalf of Tesco.

Now, Ferndown Town Council has today confirmed that it will once again be unable to install Christmas decorations on the pedestrianised street, because Tesco’s managing agents have not given permission for vehicles to access Pennys Walk.

In a social media statement, a spokesperson for the town council said: “We regret to inform residents, businesses and visitors that, despite our best efforts, Ferndown Town Council has been unable to secure permission from Tesco, via their managing agent, to allow vehicle access to Pennys Walk for the installation of Christmas decorations.

“As a result, and due to health and safety concerns, we are unable to install any decorations that would require the use of access equipment beyond ladders. This is particularly disappointing as Tesco’s own contractors are permitted to use such equipment for their own purposes.”

Ferndown Town Council added that the charges Tesco would have applied for legal fees and weight-bearing assessments would have used up a big portion of the budget for decorations, making it impossible to install more ambitious displays on both health and safety and financial grounds.

Ferndown’s Christmas decorations are fully funded by the town council. It has not requested any financial contribution from Tesco.

The town council added: “We are determined to work closely with our lighting design team to minimise the impact of Tesco’s decisions on the success of our Christmas decorations. We trust that residents will appreciate that this situation is entirely beyond our control.

“Please also be kind and considerate to Tesco’s local employees. This decision was not taken at branch level, and we know they will be just as disappointed as our residents to see the impact it has had on our festive plans.”

Ferndown Town Council said it remains committed to ensuring Christmas in the area is as bright, festive, and welcoming as possible, and thanked residents for their continued support and understanding.

Responding to the social media post, many local residents expressed their disappointment with the news.

One person, Terry Horbert, said: “Tesco managing agents surely must realise decorations will help to promote trade in their business and all others in the town at no cost to them. The Christmas Market is also more effective in The Precinct than the car park. Ferndown wants to welcome shoppers and visitors for the benefit of all.”