It’s a tale as old as London itself — the eternal tug of war between a city’s spirited pulse and those who seem to resent the beat. We’ve seen it time and again. When the Tate Modern opened its viewing platform, complaints rolled in about privacy. Soho’s late-night licenses? Outrageous, apparently. Al fresco dining during lockdown? Heaven forbid people enjoy themselves. Now, the fun police have turned their sights on day festivals in London’s parks.
And frankly, I’ve had enough. London’s summer festivals are a highlight of urban living — the chance to skip the Glasto scramble, hop on the bus with your mates, and wander into your local green haven for a day of music, dancing, and joy. They generate millions for councils in dire need of cash, fund vital community programmes, and transform our parks into vibrant cultural spaces. What’s not to like?
Plenty, say a growing chorus of residents who want to pack away the amps and return to peace and quiet — at least, their definition of it. Take Project Brockwell Park, for instance. This south London action group has raised a staggering £30,000 to fund a legal challenge against Lambeth Council, arguing the park’s summer festivals are “unlawful” and disruptive.
Festivals like Mighty Hoopla, Cross the Tracks, and City Splash are scheduled to run across 17 days. But the group claims the true impact spans 38 days, citing park damage and restricted access as key grievances. Now, they’re lobbying for full planning permission requirements — a move that, if upheld, could set a precedent threatening day festivals across the capital.
Victoria Park isn’t immune either. With the council raising the event capacity from 5,000 to 20,000, local group Victoria Park Friends are up in arms, citing noise complaints and “distress” to children and the elderly. While I empathise with the need for balance, the idea that the odd festival disrupts lives irreparably feels overblown. This is London. It’s loud. It’s lively. That’s the point.
Living in the capital demands a bit of give and take. If you want bucolic silence year-round, may I suggest the Cotswolds? London, by design, is a collective experience. Your backyard is our playground. That’s the compromise we all make for the privilege of being here — for the access, the energy, the diversity, and yes, the festivals.
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Besides, it’s not as though these events are unregulated raves. They’re ticketed, time-bound, and meticulously planned. They offer work to local vendors, bring in tourism, and give Londoners — especially those priced out of travel — a way to enjoy live music affordably and locally. What’s more, many residents get free or discounted tickets. And let’s be honest, if you’re already living in zone 2, a bit of noise and footfall should come as no surprise.
Look to Notting Hill Carnival for the blueprint. Locals either leave for the weekend or monetise the event by turning their homes into Airbnb hotspots, kitchens-for-hire or charging festival-goers to use their loos. That’s smart city living. No one in Reading is trying to shut down its eponymous festival — in fact, a recent Sun piece found most locals quite enjoy the spectacle.
So let’s not lose our heads. Don’t let London turn into a place where culture goes to die behind a curtain of complaints and court injunctions. These day festivals are part of our city’s summer soul — and they should remain so.
While the NIMBYs pen letters and prepare lawsuits, I’ll be in Brockwell Park, with glitter on my cheeks, a drink in hand, and joy in my heart. Let’s hope we can still do the same next year.
