City park set for more gigs despite disruption row

Artists like Stevie Wonder performed before crowds of about 35,000 at each concert

More live concerts are expected to be held in a popular park in Cardiff next year despite concerns about it being fenced off during a series of gigs this summer.

The performances on Blackweir Fields from Noah Kahan, Alanis Morissette, Slayer and Stevie Wonder attracted more than 100,000 people, providing an economic boost for local businesses, Cardiff council said.

However, there were complaints from residents who set up a petition after large fences were erected around the site, blocking access.

The council said the plan was to minimise disruption with future concerts on site for up to 28 days. And a planning application will also be submitted ahead of more events so people can have their say.

"The Blackweir Live concerts contributed to an incredible summer of music in Cardiff," said Jennifer Burke, cabinet member for culture, parks and events.

"And it's clear that not only do they have the support of the majority of residents, they can also help us to continue delivering on our music strategy, support our work to improve the city's green spaces and bring millions of pounds worth of economic benefits to the city."

On Monday Lewis Capaldi announced that he was set to play at Blackweir Fields next year.

The Someone You Loved singer will head to Cardiff on 30 June following on from his musical comeback at Glastonbury earlier this year.

Nick Saunders is the founder of events company Depot Live who organised the Blackweir concerts.

He called the artist an "absolute icon" and said it was a "huge show" for Wales.

"Both he and his music is loved across generations and we expect tickets to fly out to what will truly be an unforgettable night in our beloved city."

The council said independent research showed 49% of attendees travelled from outside Wales to the concerts, with more than 3,000 (2.6%) from outside the UK.

They increased city centre sales by 15.6% compared to the same period in 2024, with food and drink sales up 20.1%, according to Beauclair Data.

"Finding a balance between maximising the benefits of future events, while minimising any impact on the park environment and on residents will be central to our thinking ahead of future events," said Ms Burke.

"We're committed to working closely with event promoters and local communities to build on the success of the summer."

The view from the back garden of a local resident, whose home was right next to Blackweir Fields

Income from the concerts will contribute to a new round of funding for grassroots venues, which comes after £200,000 was granted to independent venues in the city, as well as improvements to the park's woodland, the authority said.

It also said keeping future events to under 28 days would not require "change of use" planning permission to be required legally.

However, a planning application for the events will be made as a "precautionary measure, and to ensure the community have a further opportunity to share their views".