There will be no grand celebrations this year for Solihull Christmas lights unlike last year when the occassion was marked with a choir, entertainment and the arrival of Father Christmas.
The official switch on will not take place this year due to health and safety.
It is feared that too many people will attend and it will be difficult to stage a traditional countdown and switch on ceremony with crowd issues.
The lights will still be on display in the town centre, and there will be two Christmas trees in the High Street.
Solihull borough Councillor Andy Hodgson and Coun Debbie Evans have voiced that it is a pity and people will be disappointed to come away from tradition as they look forward to the Switch on Event.
The lights are paid for by Solihull Bid (Business Improvement District) who are still planning a "spectacular" Christmas for Solihull. But the traditional switch on of the lights is not part of it this year. There will be other things going on, like the Outdoor Ice Rink in the first ever in Solihull, and there will be 45 chalet-style market stalls erected in the town centre as part of the annual Christmas Market.
Melanie Palmer, executive director of Solihull BID has defended the decision and says Solihull is set for a wonderful Christmas .The safety of the residents and visitors to Solihull is an absolute priority.
