The council says it has no intention of reviving the Lincoln Christmas Market – but has left the door open for a private business to do so.
The authority claims that both residents and businesses are happy with a programme of year-round events rather than the overcrowded four-day event.
Calls to look into bringing the market back in some form were voted down at a full meeting of the City of Lincoln Council on Tuesday (3 December).
The event was cancelled after becoming a victim of its own success, with more than 300,000 people attending the 2022 event.
Councillors shared nostalgic memories of the market – which would have been held this week – but were divided over whether it had a future.
Liberal Democrat and Conservative members said businesses should have a say over whether the event could be feasible.
However, Labour members claimed that “Christmas markets have had their day,” and the new events were becoming just as successful.
Councillor Joshua Wells (Lab), Portfolio Holder for Inclusive Economic Growth, said: “I have fond memories of the market, but it changed and grew too big. You only have to look at social media comments to see how the perception soured dramatically.
“The city has moved on from the Christmas market.
“Increasing the market’s size or length [to increase safety] would have come at considerable cost to the taxpayers.
“If there is a private venture to hold a market, the council would support it – not financially, but with advice. If someone else wants to do that, they can.”
Leader Naomi Tweddle (Lab), who represents the ward where it was held, said: “Small businesses in the Bailgate are very happy with the year-round events – they’re doing better in the summer now.”
Councillor Rebecca Longbottom (Lab) added: “Christmas markets have had their day – they’re not the magical experience they once were.”
However, opposition members said there were never meaningful conversations about how the market could have been saved.
Councillor Clare Smalley, Liberal Democrat leader, said: “It’s disappointing that the executive made the decision in 2022 without consultation with businesses or councillors until the 11th hour.
“They seemed unable to think of any solution, but we should aim to provide a safe, sustainable Christmas market – so many cities do.”
Councillor Hilton Spratt (Con) urged: “Let’s get the private sector in for a smaller event – just don’t advertise it in Newcastle.”
Councillor Rachel Storer (Con) said some of the new events, like the Monsters Invasion and the summer music festival, were “excellent” but didn’t replace the market.
The ruling Labour group voted down the motion, while the Liberal Democrats and Conservatives supported it.
It was also noted that the annual Steampunk Festival had been successfully kept in Lincoln after fears it would move elsewhere.
The Lincoln Ice Adventure will take place on 7 and 8 December, with a trail of 16 ice sculptures around the city and free public entertainment.