CHRISTMAS lights and the associated decorations which usually adorn Cibi Walk in Abergavenny may be missing this year after owners failed to receive an undertaking from one of the centre’s businesses that they would be willing to pay what he described as ‘their fair share’ of the cost.

Bill Harkness, owner of Cibi Walk which is managed by Cording Real Estate Group, has voiced his disappointment after receiving no response from Superdrug following a request to them to chip in with other businesses to fund the popular display.

The amount paid by each business is arrived at by measuring the percentage of their service charge against the overall cost of the Christmas decorations. In the case of Superdrug, the Chronicle understands this figure is £553.14 plus VAT.

Mr Harkness stated, “Superdrug have paid their contribution every year for the past 30 years without demur in the knowledge that all tenants have been asked, and are willing to pay on an equitable basis so that the scheme and the town can look at its best in the festive season.

“I am afraid we cannot proceed with ordering this years decorations without unanimity among the tenants as it would be palpably unfair for Superdrug to not contribute but gain the undoubted benefits of the decorations at the expense of their neighbours.

“No other tenant has indicated any reluctance to pay their share.”

On September 18, Superdrug told the Chronicle, ‘We’d love to discuss this opportunity as we’re very keen to be involved with the Christmas activity, we’ll be contacting the centre management regarding their plans’.

However, Mr Harkness told the Chronicle as we went to press that that no such contact has been received and that there is now likely to be insufficient time to order and prepare for this season’s festivities.

Mayor of Abergavenny, David Simcock expressed his sorrow at the decision stating, “This is very disappointing.

“The town council supports Christmas lighting in much of the rest of the town centre and we know Cibi Walk is an important shopping destination for many local people.”

Shoppers in Cibi Walk were equally disappointed at the threat to the lights and decorations. Leanne Porritt of Llanfoist said, ‘Very sad - the kids love the lights and the parade, it’s great for the town.’

Dylan Hunt of Llantilio Pertholey, stated, “I don’t go much on Christmas myself but with all the money changing hands in December it’s a pity this can’t be sorted for the sake of the youngsters.”

Dylan’s wife, Stephanie added, “There has always been a nice show along here, it would be a pity if it all stopped.”

Erica Morrison, who used to work in Cibi Walk and still shops there added, “There are not many things at Christmas that you can get for free but seeing the lights and decorations was one of them; why can’t they just sort it?”