Brockwell festivals set to go ahead despite doubts

"Plans to hold a series of festivals in Brockwell Park look set to be approved, despite the application receiving more than three times as many objections as expressions of support. Lambeth Council's planning applications committee has been advised to approve the proposals for this summer, even though previous events have been controversial after complaints of residents being unable to fully access the park and noise issues."

"Summer Events Ltd, which runs the Brockwell Live festival, lodged its first full planning application last year. Until now, the festival had taken place under permitted development rights, which allow certain temporary events without formal planning permission. The company is seeking temporary planning permission to use just over a quarter of the park for up to 32 days. The proposed window runs from 9 May to 9 June 2026 and includes time for setup, show days, derig and "wet weather buffer days"."

"Five ticketed music and cultural festivals are planned: Field Day, Cross the Tracks, City Splash, Mighty Hoopla and Brockwell Bounce. The organisers say the Wide Awake festival is "taking a break for 2026"."

"Legal action was brought by campaigners last year who argued the council did not have the correct planning approval for the festivals and that, on some occasions, events exceeded the 28 days allowed under permitted development rules. The council did not appeal after the judge ruled in favour, instead saying it was adopting a "new strategy" going forward for Brockwell Live."

Plans would allow five ticketed festivals in Brockwell Park between 9 May and 9 June 2026, using just over a quarter of the park for up to 32 days including setup, show, derig and wet-weather buffer days. Summer Events Ltd submitted its first full planning application after previously operating under permitted development rights. Residents submitted 395 objections, 127 supportive responses and seven neutral comments. Campaigners brought legal action alleging some events exceeded the 28-day permitted development limit and lacked correct planning approval; the council did not appeal and adopted a new strategy. Concerns include restricted park access, noise, lack of free family activities and unaffordable ticket prices.

Read at www.bbc.com