A campaign group known as Protect Brockwell Park in South London has successfully raised over £30,000 through crowdfunding to challenge the hosting of festivals in Lambeth park this summer. The festivals scheduled to take place include Mighty Hoopla, Wide Awake, Field Day, Cross The Tracks, and City Splash. London Centric reported that the group has taken legal action by sending a pre-action letter to the council, alleging that the licensing of these events is illegal.
The fundraising page highlights various concerns, such as environmental harm and restricted public access to the park for prolonged periods. It also accuses the council of manipulating planning regulations. While the events company Brockwell Live holds a temporary development certificate to alter the space for up to 28 days, Protect Brockwell Park argues that the park is occupied for 38 days when accounting for setup and dismantling. The group insists that festivals should undergo the complete planning permission process, including public consultations and thorough evaluation of the park’s long-term impact.
Potential legal action and a judicial review could set a precedent for other parks and festivals throughout London. Lucy Akrill, a prominent member of the Protect Brockwell Park campaign, expressed frustration with the council’s alleged lack of community consultation. On the other hand, local resident Ana De Liz expressed support for the festivals and criticized the legal challenge, emphasizing a desire to keep the festivals in the area. For more details, refer to London Centric’s comprehensive report on the issue
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