- Do you have a story? Email lettice.bromovsky@dailymail.co.uk
A council has been accused of playing Grinch after warning residents they could face fines for putting Christmas wreaths on their front doors.
Liberal Democrat-run Portsmouth City Council sparked fury after housing officers wrote to tenants telling them festive decorations were not permitted on the outside of their flats.
Hundreds of letters were sent to residents, warning that wreaths and other decorations must be removed or they could face enforcement action, including potential charges for non-compliance.
The letters told tenants they ‘must not leave items in the communal areas’ in order to comply with the terms of their tenancy agreements.
Some residents were left stunned to find warnings that fees could be imposed simply for embracing Christmas spirit.
The move prompted backlash from locals who said the decision was heavy-handed and sucked the joy out of the festive season.
One furious person wrote online: ‘Moronic State overreach BANS Christmas wreaths from tenent’s doors. And threatens to fine those people who ignore the ban.
‘Well done Portsmouth Council, it’s excellent decisions like these, that will see you voted out of office.’
Another added: ‘What a way for them to spread that Christmas cheer. People of Portsmouth should each donate a Christmas wreath on the council’s doorstep to give some cheer back.’
Responding to the criticism, the council defended the ban and insisted it was about safety, not Christmas.
A spokesperson said: ‘We understand this can feel frustrating, especially at Christmas, but communal areas in our blocks of flats, including hallways, stairwells, and doors in enclosed spaces must be kept clear and fire doors must be untampered with for fire safety.
‘This is a government requirement, was agreed with residents, is part of tenancy agreements and helps keep escape routes unobstructed and prevents damage to fire doors which keep people safe.
‘Wreaths and decorations aren’t allowed in these areas, but residents can decorate inside their homes, on private balconies, or inside windows.
‘These are the same rules used by most housing providers and are designed to protect everyone and reduce hazards.’
