LEWISHAM Council has confirmed that the Blackheath Fireworks 2022 display has been cancelled for the third year in a row.  

The annual display, which is organised by Lewisham Council, has been called off as a result of “funding cuts” from central government.  

A spokesperson for the council said although it has “endeavoured” to continue organising the display, it is currently “not possible” given the financial pressures.  

It needs to focus its “limited financial resources” on maintaining essential services and supporting vulnerable residents. 

Lewisham Council said it will explore possible options for further displays and will remain open to offers of sponsorship and external funding.  

The 2019 event was thrown into doubt after Lewisham Council said it was under threat again due to "lack of funding". 

A crowdfunding campaign was then organised by the council to raise £20,000 for the event. 

Lewisham Council confirmed at the time that the event went ahead following the fundraiser.  

However, the display was cancelled in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic.  

The 2021 display was called off again due to "lack of funding”, according to Lewisham Council. 

A spokesperson for Lewisham Council said: "Unfortunately, as a result of funding cuts from central government, the Blackheath Fireworks display will not be taking place in 2022.

"Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the display was funded almost exclusively by Lewisham Council, supported by fundraising efforts from local residents and businesses, following other partners and neighbouring local authorities withdrawing funding.

"While we have endeavoured to continue organising the display, it is not currently possible given the financial pressures facing the Council. After more than a decade of continued funding cuts from central government, we need to focus our limited financial resources on maintaining essential local services and supporting our most vulnerable residents.

"We will continue exploring possible options for future displays and remain open to offers of sponsorship and external funding."

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