Will City Park's Upcoming Gigs Overcome the Disruption Controversy?

The Cardiff Council is set to host more live concerts at Blackweir Fields next year, despite some residents' concerns over access restrictions during this summer's events. The concerts featured major artists like Noah Kahan and Alanis Morissette, drawing over 100,000 attendees, which significantly boosted local businesses. Moving forward, the council plans to minimise disruption while also seeking community input through a planning application.

Last updated: 26 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Upcoming concerts at Blackweir Fields will continue despite previous access complaints.
• Artists like Lewis Capaldi are expected to perform, attracting visitors from outside Wales.
• The concerts significantly boosted local economy, with city centre sales rising by 15.6%.
• The council aims to balance event benefits with minimal impact on local residents and park environment.
• A planning application will be submitted to gather community feedback on future events.

Overview of Recent Concerts

This summer, Blackweir Fields in Cardiff was transformed into a vibrant concert venue, hosting performances from major artists such as Slayer and Stevie Wonder. These events not only attracted music lovers but also provided a substantial economic boost to local businesses, with Cardiff Council reporting that over 100,000 attendees participated across various concerts.

Community Concerns and Access Issues

Despite the success, the summer concerts saw significant backlash from local residents. A petition was initiated over concerns regarding large fences erected around the park, which restricted public access during the events. This situation highlighted a growing tension between the benefits of hosting large-scale concerts and the need for public space accessibility.

Cardiff Council's Response

In response to these community concerns, Cardiff Council has stated that it will focus on minimising disruption in future events. Jennifer Burke, the cabinet member for culture, parks, and events, emphasised the importance of balancing the needs of the community with the benefits brought by concerts. The council plans to keep future events to a maximum of 28 days, which would not require a “change of use” planning permission legally.

Economic Impact

The concerts had a measurable impact on Cardiff's economy. Independent research indicated that 49% of attendees came from outside Wales, with some even travelling from beyond the UK. This surge in visitors led to a 15.6% increase in city centre sales, and a remarkable 20.1% rise in food and drink sales compared to the same period in the previous year.

Future Concert Plans

With the success of past events, the Cardiff Council is looking to expand its concert offerings. Lewis Capaldi, known for his emotional ballads, has already announced a performance at Blackweir Fields on 30 June 2024. Nick Saunders, the founder of Depot Live, expressed enthusiasm about the event, anticipating strong ticket demand due to Capaldi's widespread popularity across generations.

Community Engagement and Planning Applications

To ensure community voices are heard, the council will submit a planning application for future concerts. This is viewed as a precautionary measure, allowing residents to provide feedback and express concerns before the events take place. Burke stated that the council is committed to working closely with local communities and event promoters to build on the successes of past concerts while addressing any local issues.

Funding for Grassroots Venues

The income generated from these concerts is also earmarked for supporting grassroots music venues in Cardiff, following a recent grant of £200,000 to independent venues. This initiative aims to foster local talent and enhance the city’s music scene, aligning with the council's broader strategy for cultural development.

Environmental Considerations

As the council moves forward with planning future concerts, it is also prioritising the environmental impact on the park. Burke mentioned that the balance between maximising benefits and safeguarding the park's natural environment will be central to their planning process. This involves careful consideration of how events are staged and managed to preserve the park's integrity.

What’s Next for Cardiff’s Concert Scene?

With more events planned and a commitment to community engagement, Cardiff’s concert scene is poised for growth. While challenges remain regarding public access and environmental impact, the council is actively seeking solutions that benefit both the local community and the economy. The upcoming concerts not only promise a vibrant atmosphere but also a chance to continue enhancing Cardiff’s cultural landscape.

The success of concerts at Blackweir Fields indicates a bright future for live music in Cardiff, provided that community concerns are adequately addressed. How will the city balance its ambitions for cultural events with the needs of residents and the environment? #CardiffConcerts #LiveMusic #CommunityEngagement

FAQs

What concerts are planned for Blackweir Fields in 2024?

In 2024, Lewis Capaldi is set to perform at Blackweir Fields on 30 June, following other successful concerts this summer.

How many attendees visited the Blackweir concerts this summer?

More than 100,000 attendees participated in the summer concerts at Blackweir Fields, significantly boosting local businesses.

What measures is Cardiff Council taking to address resident concerns?

Cardiff Council plans to submit a planning application to gather community feedback on future concerts and aims to minimise disruptions while hosting events.

What was the economic impact of the concerts?

The concerts resulted in a 15.6% increase in city centre sales, with food and drink sales up by 20.1% compared to the previous year.

How is the income from concerts being used?

Income generated from the concerts will support grassroots venues in Cardiff and improve the park's woodlands, contributing to the local music scene.