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Belfast is on the verge of losing its largest outdoor concert venue as plans are underway to revert the site back to sports fields and community facilities. The land in question, managed by Belfast City Council and located in the southern part of the city, has been a popular location for major music events hosting audiences of up to 40,000 people. Sinn Féin has confirmed that the intention is to restore the area to playing fields, shifting away from its recent role as a hub for large-scale concerts.
This proposal is scheduled to be presented to the council for official approval in an upcoming meeting. Although the exact timeline remains uncertain, it is anticipated that the transition will not begin until 2028. Over the years, the venue has been known to accommodate high-profile performers such as Bruce Springsteen, Liam Gallagher, Sam Fender, Fatboy Slim, Fontaines D.C., and the Irish rap group Kneecap. This change reflects a significant shift in how the space will be utilized moving forward.
The decision has stirred controversy, drawing criticism from various quarters. The Alliance Party, through former Lord Mayor Micky Murray, has voiced strong disapproval of the plan. Murray described the move as “short-sighted,” emphasizing the importance of the venue for attracting international artists to Belfast. He expressed hope that other council members would join in opposing the measure at the full council meeting, highlighting the broader implications for the city’s cultural scene. Council documents also note the financial benefits of such events, citing about £300,000 yearly income for the council, including a social levy.
From Sinn Féin’s perspective, represented by councillor Natasha Brennan, the shift is a positive development. Brennan stated that the site will be transformed into two full-size GAA pitches and an intermediate soccer pitch, delivering notable advantages for local sports clubs and young athletes. She explained that the land would revert to its original purpose, alleviating disruptions faced by residents during concert seasons while supporting grassroots sports activities. The forthcoming council meeting will formalize this decision, marking the end of the site’s era as a large-scale music venue
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