Are Blackweir Gigs Making a Comeback or Causing Controversy?

The return of Blackweir Live concerts next summer has sparked a variety of responses from the community, balancing local economic benefits against concerns over traffic, noise, and environmental impact. With headline acts like Lewis Capaldi scheduled to perform, the event promises to attract significant crowds and revenue, but challenges persist regarding its effect on nearby residents and facilities.

Last updated: 24 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Blackweir Live concerts will return in summer 2026, featuring artists like Lewis Capaldi.
• Local groups have raised concerns about traffic congestion and noise pollution from the events.
• The council claims that the concerts bring substantial economic benefits to Cardiff.
• Sports facilities in the area have reported degradation due to the events.
• The council has yet to disclose financial details regarding the income generated from the concerts.

The Return of Blackweir Live Concerts

Blackweir Live concerts are set to make a comeback in summer 2026, with Lewis Capaldi headlining one of the highly anticipated events. This announcement has revived discussions about the concerts' impact on the local community, following previous events that featured renowned artists such as Stevie Wonder and Alanis Morissette. While music fans may rejoice, local residents and organisations have voiced their concerns about the implications of hosting such large-scale gatherings in Blackweir Fields.

Community Concerns

Friends of Bute Park, a local advocacy group, has expressed dissatisfaction with how the council managed the previous events. Their concerns include:

• Traffic Issues: Concerts led to severe traffic congestion, with many drivers reportedly stuck in gridlocks for over an hour.
• Noise Pollution: Over 100 complaints regarding noise were lodged with the council during the last concert series.
• Environmental Impact: The removal of trees to facilitate event entrances raised alarm about biodiversity and park integrity.
• Degradation of Sports Facilities: Local sports pitches suffered damage during the events, as noted by Syed Abbas, chairman of the Bay Dragons Cricket Club.

Economic Arguments in Favour

Despite the backlash, Cardiff Council has defended the concerts, citing significant economic contributions to the city. According to recent statistics, nearly 50% of concert-goers travelled from outside Wales, with 2.6% coming from outside the UK. The events reportedly employed more than 3,100 people, with 95% of those jobs in Welsh businesses. Cllr Huw Thomas, the council leader, emphasised that the income generated helps avoid tough budget cuts, highlighting the importance of Blackweir Live to Cardiff’s economy.

Local Business Perspectives

The local business community has largely welcomed the return of Blackweir Live. Nick Newman, general manager of the Blue Bell pub, stated that events like these significantly benefit city centre establishments. He noted that increased footfall from concert attendees translates into more revenue for bars and pubs.

However, some business owners, like Matt Cutrupi from the Moon in Womanby Street, reported that while they support the concerts, they did not observe a substantial increase in sales. Cutrupi mentioned that the costs associated with transport, ticket prices, and spending at the event itself may deter attendees from spending additional money in the city before or after the concerts.

Planning and Environmental Impact

In the lead-up to the previous concerts, concerns were raised regarding the lack of formal planning applications. A council report indicated that no application for planning permission had been submitted, and a certificate of lawfulness was not issued. The council has since stated it will seek planning permission for the upcoming series of concerts in 2026, aiming to address these regulatory gaps and mitigate community concerns.

What Lies Ahead for Blackweir Live

As the planning for the next series of concerts unfolds, the council will need to navigate community feedback carefully. There is a pressing need for transparent communication regarding the economic benefits and the strategies in place to manage traffic and noise. The council has indicated that protective measures will continue to be enforced, but the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen.

Conclusion

The return of Blackweir Live concerts presents both opportunities and challenges. With the potential to boost local businesses and the economy, the concerns of residents and environmental advocates cannot be overlooked. As Cardiff prepares for another summer of music, how the council balances these competing interests will be crucial in shaping the future of live events in the area. Will they find a solution that satisfies both the music lovers and the local community? Only time will tell.

FAQs

What is Blackweir Live?

Blackweir Live is a series of outdoor concerts held in Blackweir Fields, Cardiff, featuring popular musicians and artists from various genres.

When will the next Blackweir Live concerts take place?

The next Blackweir Live concerts are scheduled for summer 2026, with Lewis Capaldi confirmed as a headliner.

What concerns have been raised about the concerts?

Concerns include traffic congestion, noise pollution, the removal of trees, and damage to local sports pitches from the events.

What are the economic benefits of Blackweir Live?

Blackweir Live generates significant income for the local economy, employing over 3,100 individuals and attracting many visitors from outside Wales and the UK.

Is planning permission required for Blackweir Live?

Yes, the council plans to seek planning permission for the upcoming series of concerts to ensure compliance with local regulations.