Latest news with #CitySplash
Daily Mirror
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
All the Brockwell Park music festivals and events still going ahead this month
Despite a recent High Court ruling throwing a wrench in Brockwell Live's planning permissions, the company's Summer Festival Series is set to continue as scheduled, starting from May 23 Brockwell Park 's festival plans were put in jeopardy after a recent High Court ruling. However, Brockwell Live has confirmed that 'no event will be cancelled as a result of the High Court's decision" and that its stacked line-up of summer events will proceed as planned. Brockwell Live's 2025 Summer Festival Series will see back-to-back music festivals and events taking place in Brockwell Park between from the end of May to the beginning of June. The events range from family-friendly favourites like Brockwell Bounce to the massive annual Lambeth Country Show. Wide Awake (May 23) The Summer Series will kick off with Wide Awake, which brands itself as 'an independent festival for music fans looking for something different'. The festival launched in 2021 and is still in its infancy, but is founded by Keith Miller - the booker for London live-music venues MOTH Club and The Shacklewell Arms. The one-day event celebrates independent music and counterculture, and this year's line-up will be headlined by the Irish rap trio, Kneecap, as well as CMAT, English Teacher, Fat Dog, and Peaches. There will be over 45 artists performing at the event across 6 stages, with general admission tickets priced at £69.50. Field Day (May 24) This year Field Day returns to Brockwell Park after retreating to its initial Victoria Park venue for the last three years. Since it launched in 2007, the electronic festival has been known for its impressive line-up of rising star artists and big names acts. But its 2025 event 'marks the beginning of a new chapter'. Will you be attending a festival in Brockwell Park this year? Let us know in the comments. While the festival has faced some controversy with DJs dropping out in the last few weeks, its big headliner is sure to draw major crowds. Leading the line-up is internationally acclaimed DJ Peggy Gou, who is known for her high-energy techno and house beats. Other artists in the line-up include Fatima Yamaha, James Blake and Nicola Bear, with 'more TBA'. Tickets for general admission are priced at £89.50 Cross The Tracks (May 25) Billed as 'the ultimate destination for everything jazz, funk, soul and hip-hop' Cross The Tracks has come to be loved by many South Londoners. In its sixth year, the festival brings together one of its best line-ups to date. Big acts include the Free Nationals, Jordan Rakei, Sinead Harnett, Naomi Sharon and Somewhere Soul, with two Mercury prize -winning headliners in Michael Kiwanuka and Ezra Collective. Tickets are still available with lowest price general admission spots available for £69.50. City Splash (May 26) The bank holiday Monday is reserved for City Splash, which promises to showcase everything from 'Roots and Reggae, Dub and Dancehall, to Jungle, Garage, Afrobeats and Amapiano'. The music and culture fest will be full of great eats as well, partnering with Black Eats LDN to set up a vibrant street food and market. On the music side, the festival will be headlined by Popcaan and feature other artists including Spice, Tarrus Riley, Teejay, Nia Smith and many more. Tickets are still on available with lowest general admission starting at £69.50. Mighty Hoopla (May 31 - June 1) Mighty Hoopla, bills itself as 'the UK's biggest pop festival' and runs across two days. This year, the first day of the festival will be headlined by the iconic Ciara, with planned performances from Jade and and A*Teens. The second day will be headlined by Kesha and features performances from Erika Jayne and Loreen. The lowest price VIP Bolt-On tickets for both days are sold out but you can buy Weekend General Admission tickets from £188 on Stub Hub.
Daily Mirror
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
London's Brockwell Park music festivals to proceed despite High Court ruling
Despite a successful legal challenge against Lambeth Council, South London's Brockwell Park is still set to be the venue of back-to-back music festivals this summer, including City Splash and Wide Awake Music festivals at London's Brockwell Park are set to go on as scheduled, despite a recent High Court decision concerning planning permission. The park, located in London's Lambeth borough, is the venue for the popular event series Brockwell Live which features six festivals and events, including: Wide Awake, Field Day, Cross the Tracks, City Splash, Brockwell Bounce, Mighty Hoopla, and the Lambeth Country Show. Last week, local resident Rebekah Shaman of the Protect Brockwell Park group won a legal challenge against Lambeth Council regarding the use of parts of the park for this year's festivals, kicking off on May 23. Protect Brockwell Park has been vocal about the negative impact that festivals have had on the park, issuing an open letter to Lambeth Council calling for an end to 'large-scale, unsustainable events' that are 'damaging the ecological fabric of the park'. Shaman's legal challenge brought into contest Lambeth Council's assertion that the planned use of the land was lawful, given that the 37-day duration of the festivals exceeded the 28 days allowed for a temporary change of use. Mr Justice Mould branded the council's decision to certify the planned land use as lawful "irrational" in his High Court ruling on May 16. Following the judgment, lawyers representing Shaman and the Protect Brockwell Park group demanded that the council confirm the cancellation of the events and remove any related infrastructure, claiming that Brockwell Live lacked planning permission. However, a spokesperson for Brockwell Live subsequently clarified that all events will proceed as intended. Lambeth Council also stated that Summer Events Limited, the festival organisers, have submitted a fresh application for planning permission. The Brockwell Live representative announced: "Brockwell Live can confirm that all events in the series will go ahead as planned, including the Lambeth Country Show." The full statement, now on the Brockwell Live website, explains that the High Court ruling "dealt with a particular point of law and whether an administrative process had been carried out correctly." The statement continues: "We wish to make it clear that no event will be cancelled as a result of the High Court's decision." "We take our stewardship of Brockwell Park seriously. As we prepare to deliver these much-loved, culturally significant events, we remain fully committed to its care, upkeep, and long-term wellbeing. With set-up nearly complete, we look forward to opening the gates and welcoming festival-goers later this week." Lambeth Council also confirmed that it is working to ensure the Brockwell Live events go on as scheduled, and that organisers are taking all the necessary steps to obtain the appropriate permissions. Lambeth Council stated: "Summer Events Limited has applied to Lambeth Council for a new certificate of lawfulness, for 24 days, following the High Court ruling last week on the previous certificate. The council is urgently considering that application. That consideration does not stop the events proceeding." Before the hearing on May 15, Protect Brockwell Park said they are "not anti-festival, we support well-run inclusive events", but that the festivals cause damage, including to the grassland and trees. Mr Justice Mould said that his decision was only about "the lawfulness of the decision to grant the certificate", after previously telling lawyers that "what is happening on the ground" would be a question for Lambeth Council as the planning authority to decide. Lawyers for the council and Summer Events Limited both asked the judge for the go-ahead to challenge his decision, but this was refused. The council and organisers still have the option to request permission from the Court of Appeal to contest the decision directly. Campaigners from Protect Brockwell Park, along with actor Sir Mark Rylance, celebrated the ruling. In a statement released by the group, Sir Mark Rylance described it as "wonderful news", adding that "every small victory for nature makes a difference". The legal challenge seems to be one obstacle in a string of many hurdles faced by London's line-up of summer music festivals. Field Day festival - set to take place in Brockwell Park this Saturday, May 24 - is facing its own crisis as multiple DJs have pulled out of the festival as part of a Palestine-related campaign against the event's parent company KKR. At time of writing, at least 15 acts have pulled out of the festival, including the Sisu Crew, Midland, Spray, Roza Terenzi and Regularfantasy. Wide Awake festival, which will kick-off the Brockwell Live events this Friday, May 23 was also under heat after calls to remove its headliner - the Irish rap trio, Kneecap - from the line-up after a controversial Coachella performance. Wide Awake festival has reconfirmed that Kneecap will perform on Friday.
Time Out
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
A campaign has been launched to defend music festivals in Brockwell Park
The battle for the future of Brockwell Park is raging on. At the end of April a local group launched a legal battle against Lambeth Council urging a review of the festivals being held in the south London park, which include Wide Awake, Mighty Hoopla, Field Day and City Splash. The group, Protect Brockwell Park (PBP), which includes actor Mark Rylance, was complaining about several impacts of the festivals on the space, including walls being erected in the park, noise and environmental damage. But later a counter campaign appeared on social media, called SayYesLambeth. This group claimed to be a grassroots organisation fighting to keep festivals in Brockwell Park. 'Fighting for culture, joy and community in Lambeth. Say YES to homes. YES to nightlife. YES to events in our parks,' read their Instagram bio. However, some locals claimed this group was a fake, created by the local council or the festival organisers to make PBP look bad. London Centric investigated, and reported that the SayYesLambeth campaign was created by 'five gays with a laptop' – a group of friends who belong to a queer rugby team in south London. London Centric's Jim Waterson spoke with David, a member of the group who lives in Brixton. David asked Waterson not to publish his last name due to his work in the civil service. ' London Centric has yet to find anything to suggest SayYesLambeth is run by anyone other than an informal group of rugby-playing friends,' said the report. View this post on Instagram A post shared by SayYesLambeth (@sayyeslambeth) In an open letter posted on the SayYesLambeth Instagram, the group wrote: 'For too long, a small but powerful group has dominated the debate about Lambeth's future – shouting down new homes, opposing events in our parks, and trying to silence our vibrant night-time economy. Their voices are loud, organised, and well-funded. But they do not speak for all of us. 'We, the young people, the renters, the workers, the small business owners, the creatives – we are the majority. And now it's time to make ourselves heard. 'Lambeth's night-time economy isn't just about entertainment – it's about life, jobs, and opportunity. From music venues to clubs, from bars to late-night cafés, these spaces are vital for our communities. They provide work, they foster creativity, and they offer safe spaces for people from all walks of life. Without them, Lambeth risks becoming sterile, unaffordable, and soulless. 'We also need to protect events in our parks. Mighty Hoopla, Wide Awake, Lambeth Country Show and other festivals bring life, joy, and connection to Lambeth. They showcase our diversity, support local businesses, and give thousands of people access to music, culture, and community right on their doorstep. Parks are for everyone – and events are part of that shared, joyful use.' SayYesLambeth also created a petition to save the festivals, which had 512 signatures at the time of writing. Highlighting the festivals' positive impact on local businesses, Brockwell Live said in a statement: 'Brockwell Live delivers a series of free and ticketed events in Brockwell Park with more than half of attendees coming from across Greater London. 'Celebrating the city's diverse music and culture, events include the capital's largest Caribbean and African music festival, a nationally significant queer pop festival and a critically acclaimed celebration of jazz, funk and soul. 'Since 2023, we have co-produced the Lambeth Country Show, a free event run by Lambeth Council for 50 years, helping Lambeth save over £700,000 in 2024. 'Brockwell Live proudly supports many local organisations through the Brockwell Live Community Fund and has donated over £150,000 to date. 'We take our stewardship of Brockwell Park seriously. We welcome scrutiny and maintain open channels for dialogue with residents, councillors, and community groups at all times.' The forthcoming legal challenge could see Brockwell Park's festivals cancelled, and potentially change the face of day festivals in the capital forever. The hearing will take place on Wednesday, May 14.
Yahoo
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
City Splash Festival announces 2025 line-up with star-studded roster
The world's largest one-day celebration of Caribbean and African culture has revealed its first wave of artists for May 26. City Splash Festival, to be held at Brockwell Park, has announced a star-studded lineup for its 2025 event, featuring some of the biggest names in reggae, dancehall, and Afrobeats. Jamaican roots reggae singer Tarrus Riley, dancehall icon Spice, and rising star Valiant are headlining the festival, promising to bring a true carnival atmosphere. They will be joined by Teejay, known for his dancehall anthem 'Drift', and London-based Afrobeats music collective The Compozers. Caribbean and African music take centre stage at City Splash Festival (Image: Luke Dyson) City Splash, which will take place on Monday, May 26, is now in its fifth year and has gained a reputation for providing a space for the community to unite, connect, and celebrate. The festival will also welcome DJ AG, Channel One, Aba Shanti-I, Dankie Sounds, Dubwise Jamaica, General Levy, Heartless Crew, Iration Steppas, and Izzy Bossy to the stage. The festival is a celebration of the influence of Caribbean and African culture in the UK and globally, from the heritage of roots, dub, and dancehall, to the birth of jungle and garage, showcasing both legendary and emerging talent. Dancehall, reggae, and Afrobeats unite for one-day cultural celebration (Image: @Twiggles) City Splash has become a key advocate for Black music, food, dance, and style, earning the title of the largest one-day Black music festival in the world. A spokesperson for the festival said: "City Splash is more than just a music festival; it's a home for culture, embracing the rich influence of Caribbean and African traditions. "We are excited to transform Brockwell Park into a vibrant celebration of music, dance, and community." The festival will also feature a range of DJs, including Pioneer, Supa D, Coldsteps & Terminal 4, Rampage Sound, Capital XTRA's Ras Kwame, Rebel Clash & Liam Bailey, Saxon Sound, Seani B, Sir DJ Corey, and Shayna Marie. City Splash 2025 promises unforgettable music, food, and community vibes (Image: @garryjonesphotography) Soulful reggae singer Aleighcia Scott, versatile roots reggae vocalist Bobo Blackstar, Brixton local legend Blacka Dread, emerging talent Jada Pink, and others will also perform. Dancehall and hip hop artist Yung Saber, and female-led movement Sisters In Dub, are also part of the lineup. City Splash Festival is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, bringing together a diverse range of people to celebrate the rich cultural heritage and influences of Caribbean and African traditions. As the festival continues to grow, it remains dedicated to providing a platform for both legendary and emerging Black artists, while also offering festival-goers a chance to immerse themselves in the unique culture it celebrates. City Splash Festival is expected to transform Brockwell Park into a lively celebration of Caribbean and African music and culture once again. The festival provides not only a musical extravaganza but also a unique cultural experience, celebrating the deep-rooted influence of Caribbean and African traditions in the UK and worldwide. This event represents a unique opportunity to experience a diverse range of music, dance, food, and style, all in one day. Tickets are currently on sale, and festival-goers are encouraged to secure their spots to enjoy what is set to be another unforgettable celebration of culture and community.
Time Out
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Campaigners have launched a legal challenge against music festivals in Brockwell Park
To many Londoners, festival season is one of the best parts of the year, and one of the greatest things about living in the capital. For a few months of the year we get to experience world-class music, culture and have a right jolly in many of our wonderful local parks. But to some Londoners day festivals are a noisy nuisance, damaging parks with large crowds and lots of litter. Now some unhappy locals in south London have launched a legal campaign against Lambeth Council, urging them to review holding large-scale festival events in Brockwell Park. Every summer Brockwell Live stages a number of day parties in the park, including Wide Awake, City Splash and new for 2025 Field Day (which has moved from its former home in Victoria Park). It also hosts free events including Lambeth Country Show and kid-friendly Brockwell Bounce. But campaign group Protect Brockwell Park (PBP), including actor Mark Rylance, said that the festivals are 'destroying' the park and having an 'adverse ecological impact'. Rylance complained that large metal walls that are erected around the park for the events are ruining the vibe of the outdoor space, transforming it into a 'prison camp'. The campaign has raised more than £30,000 via Crowdjustice to fund legal proceedings against Lambeth Council. In a case that could change the face of London day festivals, PBP wants the council to have to acquire full planning permission to run events in the park. A Lambeth Council spokesperson said: 'Brockwell Park is hugely valued by the council and our communities. The council invests £500,000 a year in maintaining Brockwell Park which has won numerous awards including a Green Flag given by Keep Britain Tidy in line with the international standard for high quality parks and green spaces, as well as several London in Bloom awards. 'Events in Brockwell Park run for a short period before summer and generate significant cultural opportunities and entertainment for younger people across the borough. Events also support businesses in the area, the majority of which are small businesses who experience increases in footfall during the events programme. 'This boosts our local economy and provides jobs and income for residents, especially at a time when high streets and small traders have struggled, and when pubs are closing in record numbers. 'The area of the park used for events has been independently assessed as being of low ecological sensitivity grassland, and there is no ecological damage caused as a result. Income from events is helping us put money into diversity projects in other areas of the park, with at least £20,000 invested in this way last year.' The council added that commercial events help fund the free-to-attend Lambeth Country Show, saving the cash-strapped authority £700,000 in 2024, while festivals like Mighty Hoopla and City Splash are valued by local LGBTQ+ and Black communities. 'Any impacts from the events on the park are fixed with our event partner. We are committed to addressing all potential issues promptly and effectively, whilst ensuring Lambeth's residents continue to have access to a diverse and meaningful range of events,' the spokesperson said. A spokesperson for Brockwell Live said: 'Brockwell Live delivers a series of free and ticketed events in Brockwell Park with more than half of attendees coming from across Greater London. 'Celebrating the city's diverse music and culture, events include the capital's largest Caribbean and African music festival, a nationally significant queer pop festival and a critically acclaimed celebration of jazz, funk and soul. 'Although 2024 saw weather-related challenges, expert assessments confirm that grass and soil impacts are reversible and remedial work is ongoing. 'We understand the importance of Brockwell Park to local residents and take our stewardship seriously. We welcome scrutiny and maintain open channels for dialogue with residents, councillors, and community groups at all times.'
