The lights will be going on in Minehead, illuminating the landmark trees in The Avenue and bringing year-round sparkle to the town.
The globes are being installed in half the trees that line The Avenue linking the town centre to the seafront. The initiative aims to draw people into the town centre to enjoy the shops and other attractions – and give Minehead a unique selling point.
The bright idea came from Minehead Chamber of Trade and a number of Town Councillors, and it was the Chamber who secured funding from planning agreement money when the store was built.
The lights will be on from dusk until midnight throughout the year – but will be most visible from autumn to spring, helping to brighten up the dark winter evenings.
The low energy LED lights will be powered at a cost of about £1 per day
The lights were installed after a trial run when a single tree was lit up. It was well received locally with more than 400 positive comments from the community.
Conservative Cllr Mandy Chilcott, Deputy Leader of West Somerset Council, said: “I am delighted that new technologies in led lighting have enabled this project to be delivered. We have a beautiful avenue of trees running through Minehead, and the lighting will further enhance the atmosphere and encourage more footfall.
“I hope that this will boost the evening economy for our local businesses and attract more visitors by providing what will be a fairly unique experience for all to enjoy.”
Graham Sizer, spokesman for Minehead Chamber of Commerce, said: "For years traders in The Avenue towards the seafront have voiced their concerns over initiatives at that end of town. Many businesses coughed up £20 five years ago and that fund, held by the Chamber, can now be put to good use.
“Let's hope that when the lights can be seen in all their glory after leaf drop, they come up to everyone's expectations."