A High Court judge has ruled in favour of Brockwell Park campaigners, raising serious doubts about whether an upcoming series of music festivals will go ahead as planned.
Campaigners from the Protect Brockwell Park group, supported by Academy Award-winning actor Mark Rylance, launched a legal challenge on April 17 against Lambeth Council over its approval of festivals set to begin next week.
It is their belief these large-scale festivals, which attract more than 285,000 attendees over nine days, are having an “adverse ecological impact” on the park, including damage to grassland, harm to trees, and disruption to root protection zones caused by heavy equipment.
The legal challenge focused on a key issue: Lambeth Council’s use of 'permitted development' rules to allow these festivals to take place, effectively bypassing the full planning process.
Campaigners argued that Lambeth Council acted improperly by issuing a licence under these rules, claiming they were misapplied in this case.
They maintained that the event series, including setup and de-rigging, spans more than 28 days and therefore exceeds the legal limit.
But Lambeth Council contested the legal challenge, which was led by Rebekah Shaman, a Protect Brockwell Park member.
At a High Court hearing today, the Honourable Mr Justice Mould ruled in favour of Ms Shaman, stating the council’s decision to grant a Lawful Development Certificate was “irrational”.
The Judge ordered the certificate to be quashed, casting doubt on whether Brockwell Live can proceed as scheduled next week.
Mr Justice Mould counted the “period between commencement and normal use of the park” to be 37 days and as such, this was “incontrovertibly beyond the scope” of planning development rights.
“This is a victory not just for Brockwell Park, but for communities everywhere fighting to preserve their green spaces,” said Lucy Akrill, Co-Founder of Brockwell Park.
“Parks should not be handed over for private profit without proper oversight.”
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Actor Sir Mark Rylance also expressed his joy at the landmark victory. He said: “Wonderful news!!!! Brockwell park will be open to all for free again this summer. No walls. No trucks. The grass, and trees, and plants will have a chance to recover from the years of abuse.
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“Now let's help revive the beloved Lambeth country fair as it used to be, open to all. Congratulations to all who worked so devotedly to achieve this decision. Every small victory for Nature makes a difference.”
Brockwell Live is an annual series of music festivals that create valuable cultural opportunities for the local community while providing a substantial boost to the local economy.
Events include Mighty Hoopla which is widely celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and strong ties to the LGBT+ community. In 2025, the festival is scheduled for May 31 and June 1, with headliners including Ciara and Kesha.
Permitted development rules' are a legal mechanism that allow up to 28 days of temporary parkland use per year without the need for planning permission.
The decision today could disrupt the capital’s music festival landscape and transform the way public parks are utilised throughout the city.
Mr Justice Mould refused initial bids for permission to appeal from Lambeth Council and festival operators Summer Events Limited.
A Lambeth Council spokesperson said: “We are currently assessing the impact of this judgement and determining next steps.”