Blackheath fireworks display to expand to two days from 2027

Blackheath's annual fireworks display will expand to two days from 2027 after Lewisham Council's Licensing Sub-Committee granted approval. Slammin' Events, the organisers of the popular display held on Blackheath, had applied for a new premises licence to facilitate the extended format.

This year's event, scheduled for November 7, is anticipated to draw 40,000 attendees, an increase of 10,000 from the previous year. Under the newly approved plans, the event capacity will be 40,000 people per day. This means a two-day event could accommodate up to 80,000 people in total across the weekend.

Resident Concerns Addressed

Several local residents voiced objections to the expansion plans during the licensing sub-committee meeting. Concerns centred on potential public nuisance, public safety, and crime and disorder, particularly in light of increased attendance figures and expanded alcohol sales. One objector stated, "We are very concerned about the plans to issue a licence for Blackheath Fireworks, which is proposed for one day this year and two consecutive days next year and in each year afterwards. And for an increased number of 40,000 ticket holders per day, this will impact us as local residents currently in extremely close proximity to the proposed site."

Another resident, John Heath, questioned the reasoning behind the proposed increase in numbers and the shift from a single day to two days, noting, "It is now being sought for up to 40,000 attendees per day and a two-day event for next year and future years - the reasoning behind the proposed increased in numbers and the move from one to two days is not at all clear."

Paul Rooney, event director at Slammin' Events, addressed these concerns by highlighting the organisers' experience and measures taken to manage the event. He stated that consultation with residents had led to adjustments, such as moving the fence line further from Talbot Place. Rooney also emphasised that no responsible authorities had raised concerns about the application, which should provide comfort to the committee.

Event Details and Future Format

The two-day event will take place on either a Friday and Saturday or a Saturday and Sunday, between the last week of October and the second week of November. To manage potential overcrowding, the event will feature three main entrances: Blackheath Gate, Lewisham Gate, and Greenwich Gate. The number of food catering units has also been increased from 32 to 50.

Ticket prices for this year's event range from £5 for under-10s, £10 for 11 to 15-year-olds, and £16 for adults. Family ticket options are available, and a number of tickets will be reserved for local families on low incomes, with further details to be announced.

The expanded event will include music from DJs, live comedy, and a People's Stage to showcase local talent. Slammin' Events has advised attendees to purchase tickets early, as last year's event sold out within weeks.