Organisers of the Blackheath fireworks display have submitted a new premises licence application that could see the popular event extended to two days from next year. Slammin' Events, the company behind the Alexandra Palace fireworks display, is proposing to host an annual two-day weekend event in Blackheath, scheduled between the last week of October and the second week of November.
For this year, Slammin' Events plans to hold a one-day event on Saturday, November 7. If the new plans are approved, future events would take place on either a Friday and Saturday or a Saturday and Sunday. The organisers also intend to increase the event's capacity from 29,999 to 39,999 people.
Return after six years and new admission fee
Last year's event marked the first time the fireworks display had been held in six years. It was also the first occasion visitors were charged an admission fee, with adults paying £16 per head. The musical line-up included performances from the Heavy Beat Brass Band and BBC Radio 2's DJ Spoony, alongside live games, light shows, singalongs and stand-up comedy.
More than 30 food and drink stalls were present at the event, featuring vendors such as SpudBros, Tasty Turk, BEYRoots Lebanese and The Duck Shed.
Resident objections cite damage and restricted access
The latest proposals have drawn objections from 17 residents. One resident stated that last year's event caused damage to parts of the Heath, and that affected areas "have yet to fully recover". Another resident reported that large areas of the Heath were "barricaded with metal railings and an additional 8ft fence" for nearly a week, which "severely restricted access" and use of the Heath.
The same resident added: "The aftermath was particularly problematic. For three to four months, the area used by the school for games and play was rendered unusable due to thick mud. Although the area was eventually reseeded, the wet winter meant the ground did not recover until June, depriving children of a vital recreational space for much of the school year."
Licensing committee decision due next week
Lewisham Council's Licensing Sub-Committee is scheduled to decide on the plans at a meeting on September 8. The decision will determine whether the two-day format and increased capacity are approved for future years.
