Thousands of music fans have been left reeling after a major two-day festival planned for New Brighton was abruptly cancelled just weeks before it was scheduled to take place. Organisers have pulled all ticket sales and dismantled the event's online presence, leaving attendees in the dark about refunds.
The 'Unforgettable' festival, which promised a stellar lineup of tribute acts and family entertainment at The Dips on August 31 and September 1, is no longer going ahead. Wirral Council has now confirmed the cancellation, citing the organiser's failure to meet essential safety and planning requirements.
Key Takeaways
- The 'Unforgettable' music festival, scheduled for Aug 31-Sep 1 in New Brighton, has been cancelled.
- Wirral Council confirmed the cancellation, stating the organiser failed to provide necessary safety and event management plans.
- Organisers, Unforgettable Festivals, have removed the event website and all social media pages.
- Ticket holders are currently awaiting information regarding refunds for the scrapped event.
Sudden Cancellation Sparks Confusion and Frustration
The plug was pulled on the highly anticipated event with little warning, causing widespread confusion among those who had purchased tickets. The festival's official website and social media channels have been taken offline, replaced by error messages, effectively erasing its digital footprint.
This sudden disappearance of information has left ticket holders frustrated and searching for answers. The event, which was marketed as a family-friendly weekend, had been actively selling tickets for months, promising a vibrant celebration to cap off the summer holidays.
What Was Promised?
The 'Unforgettable' festival was advertised as a premier music event on the Wirral coastline. The lineup was set to feature top-tier tribute acts celebrating music legends such as Queen, The Beatles, ABBA, and Oasis. Beyond the music, the event promised a full family experience with funfair rides, food stalls, and a variety of entertainment options across the bank holiday weekend.
Wirral Council Confirms Event is Off
In a definitive statement, Wirral Council clarified the situation, confirming that they had no choice but to prevent the event from proceeding. The decision was made after the organiser, trading as Unforgettable Festivals, repeatedly failed to submit the required documentation for a safety certificate.
"The event proposed by the organisation ‘Unforgettable Festivals’ to be held at The Dips, New Brighton on August 31 and September 1, 2024, will not be going ahead. The organiser has failed to provide the necessary documentation that is required for the council, as landowner, and the Wirral Safety Advisory Group (SAG) to be assured that this event can take place safely."
The council emphasized that public safety is its primary concern. The Safety Advisory Group (SAG), which includes representatives from the council, emergency services, and other relevant bodies, plays a critical role in vetting large-scale public events to ensure they are managed safely and effectively.
A History of Failed Assurances
According to the council, the issues with the organiser were not a last-minute problem. The statement revealed a prolonged period of non-compliance.
"Despite our best efforts to work with and support the organiser over a number of months, they have failed to provide the required documentation and assurances that they are able to deliver a safe event for attendees, staff, and the local community," a council spokesperson added. This lack of cooperation left the authorities with no alternative but to withdraw permission for the event to be held on public land.
The Role of the Safety Advisory Group (SAG)
For any large public event in the UK, a Safety Advisory Group provides guidance and advice to ensure high standards of public safety. The group typically includes:
- Local Authority representatives (licensing, environmental health, emergency planning)
- Police
- Fire and Rescue Service
- Ambulance Service
What Happens Next for Ticket Holders?
The primary concern for many is now the status of their tickets and the process for securing refunds. With the organiser's official communication channels shut down, attendees are in a difficult position.
Wirral Council has directed all queries regarding ticket refunds back to the organiser. However, with Unforgettable Festivals having ceased communication, ticket holders may need to pursue other avenues. Those who paid by credit card may be able to claim a refund through their card provider under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act if the ticket cost was over £100.
For debit card purchases or transactions under £100, the 'chargeback' scheme may offer a route to reimbursement, although this is a voluntary arrangement between banks and not a legal requirement. The abrupt cancellation serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with purchasing tickets for new or unestablished festival brands.