'Loved by generations of Walsall families': Walsall Illuminations could return as council in 'advanced talks'

The deputy leader of Reform in Walsall has announced that the borough council is in “advanced talks” about the return of the Walsall Illuminations.

The festival, hosted by Walsall Council, once brought families in droves to Walsall Arboretum to watch laser shows, lakeside displays and other light performances.

The first Walsall Illuminations was held in 1951 and launched as part of the Festival of Britain.

It ran each autumn until 2008 before it was eventually scrapped for good by the Conservative council administration in 2011. At the time the authority said it was losing six-figure sums each year due to falling visitor numbers.

Councillor Nicky Barker, portfolio holder for regeneration at Walsall Council, has announced that discussions for its return are ongoing and residents should have some “positive news very soon”.

She warned that “there’s still a lot of work to be done” but the Reform administration is “really excited about how discussions are progressing”.

Councillor Barker said: “Walsall has a rich history and heritage and there are certain things that hold a really special place in the hearts of local people.

“Before we were elected we said we would do everything we can to protect our heritage and do more for the community and that is exactly what we’re doing.

“Back in August, we began discussions with organisers about the possibility of bringing back something that was loved by generations of Walsall families.

“Since then, those conversations have now progressed and I’m absolutely delighted to say we’re now in advanced talks and hope to have some positive news very soon.

“For decades the Walsall Illuminations were a much-loved part of Walsall’s history and wouldn’t it be wonderful to see them lighting up our borough once again? There’s still a lot of work to be done but we’re really excited about how discussions are progressing.”