Campaigner wins legal challenge over use of Brockwell Park

Olivia Demetriades & Aurelia Foster

BBC News, London

Following a legal battle, a resident succeeded in challenging Lambeth Council’s decision to allow music festivals in Brockwell Park, London, this summer.

Local resident Rebekah Shaman raised concerns about the lack of proper planning permission, arguing that the council’s allowance for events like the Mighty Hoopla would violate regulations.

In response to the court ruling in her favor, a spokesperson for Lambeth Council stated that they are currently evaluating the implications of the judgment and determining their next steps.

The core of Ms Shaman’s case was the contention that using parks for events beyond 28 days annually without additional planning approval goes against planning laws.

During the trial, Justice Mould noted that the park would be unavailable to the public for events for up to 37 days in total, which breached existing regulations.

While speakers for Lambeth Council and event organizers expressed disappointment with the ruling, they were denied permission by the judge to contest the decision, although they have the option to apply directly to the Court of Appeal.

The acclaimed actor Sir Mark Rylance, a supporter of the campaign, hailed the court’s decision as a positive development.

Local residents shared mixed reactions to the ruling, expressing both satisfaction with protecting the park and disappointment at the potential loss of cultural events in the area.

The Protect Brockwell Park group emphasized their support for well-run events but emphasized the need to preserve the park’s ecological and community value.