The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) has expressed serious concerns, stating that cancelling a number of music festivals would deal a “devastating blow,” leaving tens of thousands of individuals “in limbo.”
Among the planned gatherings, which include the Mighty Hoopla, Cross The Tracks, and Wide Awake, are set to take place at Brockwell Park in south London from May 23 to June 8.
However, on Friday, local resident Rebekah Shaman successfully challenged the council’s right to use the park for these events this summer, arguing that the necessary planning permission was not in place.
A spokesperson for Lambeth Council stated, “We are currently evaluating the implications of this ruling and determining our next steps.”
Michael Kill, NTIA’s chief executive, commented that the cancellation of these festivals “would have a direct effect on thousands of individuals… many of whom depend on the summer season for their livelihoods.”
He noted that the surrounding supply chain, including staging and lighting companies as well as local food and beverage vendors, would incur significant financial losses.
“The local economy—which includes independent stores, pubs, restaurants, and hotels that see a boost in business during these festivals—would face serious repercussions,” he added.
Kill further emphasized that the legal challenge highlighted a more profound crisis impacting the cultural and events sector. “If these festivals cannot go ahead, it represents a severe setback for London’s reputation as a global center for live music, culture, and community festivities, signaling a troubling new chapter for festivals and events throughout the UK,” he remarked.
A representative from the Protect Brockwell Park campaign previously stated that they aren’t opposed to events but hope that Lambeth Council will engage with them “constructively next year” regarding activities in the park.
Attorneys for the campaign group have sent a letter to Lambeth Council urging the cancellation of the festivals. “The outcome of the ruling means that the Brockwell Live event lacks planning permission,” they stated. “Without the necessary approval, the event must be cancelled. The area must be reopened to the public immediately, and all fencing and infrastructure should be removed.”
Ms. Shaman’s legal stance focused on planning regulations that restrict changing the use of a park for more than 28 days each year without required planning consent.
Justice Mould, who presided over the case, found that parts of Brockwell Park would be utilized for the events for up to 37 days, describing the council’s decision to grant permission for the additional days as “irrational.”
Ms. Shaman expressed that her intention was not to take legal action against Lambeth Council but felt it was necessary due to a lack of engagement with the community. “This issue has persisted for years; it’s not just a one-time situation. The park has been consistently deteriorating, prompting the community to advocate for its preservation for future generations,” she said.
She added, “We hope to find a solution that allows events to continue, but at a significantly reduced scale and in closer alignment with community interests.”
Lawyers representing Lambeth Council and festival organizers Summer Events Limited sought permission to appeal the ruling, but the judge denied it. However, they still have the option to request permission to appeal directly from the Court of Appeal.
A spokesperson for the event organizers stated, “Summer Events Limited is reviewing the judgment regarding Brockwell Live with their legal team. We will refrain from further comments while legal proceedings are ongoing.”
