Following confusion over the blockage of the walk-through feature of the new Christmas tree now located in the town centre, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has confirmed that the wooden fence currently surrounding the tree was erected as "a temporary measure" which is under review from a "health and safety perspective".
The new artificial tree, which was gifted to the town by Enniskillen businesses via Enniskillen BID, was constructed at The Diamond, Enniskillen yesterday afternoon (Tuesday, November 22).
The tree currently has a wooden fence surrounding it, preventing people from walking through it as designed, which has caused uproar, with many people posting their confusion over the matter on social media.
A spokesperson for the Council confirmed to The Impartial Reporter today (Wednesday) that the fence was erected as "a temporary measure".
"The Council erected the fence as a temporary measure until December 1 to protect the tree frame and reduce the risk of vandalism before the lights are turned on.
"The Council is currently reviewing the fencing arrangements from a health and safety perspective."
Noelle McAloon, Enniskillen BID manager, pictured with the new walk-through Christmas tree in Enniskillen.
Noelle McAloon, Enniskillen BID manager, told this newspaper on Tuesday that the fence would be removed on December 1 to coincide with the illumination of the town's Christmas lights.
Talking about the new Christmas tree, which has replaced the Council's town centre tree, Noelle said: "This Christmas sees the introduction of a fabulous new Christmas tree for our island town.
"A gift from the businesses of Enniskillen to brighten up the town centre, this walk-through eight-metre tree brings a whole new level of Christmas glamour.
"We have all experienced a tough couple of years and this Christmas brings even more challenges for many of us.
"So Enniskillen businesses, via Enniskillen BID, want to bring some Christmas magic to the town centre and dust this Christmas with extra sparkles!"
It is understood that the reusable tree, which was funded by Enniskillen BID, cost around £19,000 and will have a lifespan of at least 10 years.
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