Plan to allow bigger events at park met with anger

All Points East in Victoria Park attracted 50,000 people, which remains the maximum capacity allowed for major events

An east London park is set to have its event capacities increased.

Tower Hamlets Council has approved a decision to allow Victoria Park's medium and large events to increase in size from 500 and 5,000 to 5,000 and 20,000 people respectively.

The decision has been met with protests from residents.

However, mayor Lutfur Rahman said the council had "no choice" but to hire out the park as another way of making money.

'Cannot let this happen'

Victoria Park, which is one of London's most visited green spaces, plays host to popular music festivals including Lovebox and All Points East, which saw the likes of Stormzy, The Strokes and Aphex Twin perform last summer.

Major events, which remain capped at 50,000 people, will be held more frequently - from 10 to 12 such events each year, the council said.

Residents have demanded the council carry out a consultation on the mayor’s plans for the park.

A petition read: “This is a terrible idea that would ruin our park, our neighbourhood and our environment. It would mean more noise, more traffic, more waste and more pollution in our area.

“It would also mean less access and less enjoyment of the park for us, especially for our families and children who need the park during the summer holidays.

“We cannot let this happen. We need to stand up for our park, our rights and our voice."

The council said: “The proposed changes would allow for a wider range of events to be considered by the council and boost local businesses and provide a wider range of things for local people to do and enjoy in the park."