Fans of Tokyo World have shared their disappointment after this year's festival was cancelled due to safety concerns. The festival released a statement last Friday (June 16) to say there were too many growing challenges at Eastville Park "that cannot be overcome" and so made the decision to call off this year's event due to take place from September 16-17.
This year was set to be the ninth edition of the music event that sees some of the biggest international artists perform across multiple stages, with Pendulum and Rudimental announced as headliners in May. All tickets are being refunded at face value.
In its initial statement, Tokyo World said: "We've worked hard with the council and police who have been supportive, but we have not been able to find workable solutions to the challenges of this location in order to keep the event safe and secure in the surrounding area and roads."
Read more: 'Devastated' organisers cancel Tokyo World 2023
Speaking to BristolLive on the announcement, a spokesperson from Avon and Somerset Police said: "We have seen the announcement by the organisers of Tokyo World that it is unable to proceed with the festival in Eastville Park in September.
“Plans for a policing operation were underway and we had been committed to working with Bristol City Council and organisers to ensure the event proceeded safely, until learning the organisers did not feel it could go ahead as planned. At no point have we recommended this event was cancelled or postponed on safety grounds.”
A spokesperson from Bristol City Council said: "We’re disappointed that the event organisers have decided to cancel this year’s Tokyo World but we recognise the challenges within the sector and will continue to work with the team to plan for the future. Despite this cancellation we’re proud that the city boasts a jam packed world-class events calendar this summer that includes Bristol Pride, the return of St Pauls Carnival, the Harbour Festival, Bristol Sounds, and Forwards festival.”
Many fans questioned why the festival couldn't be relocated to another outdoor location in Bristol. "I’m sure you’ve already thought of this but can you not just move it to Clifton down or Ashton court?" Instagram user twoody.97 asked.
@phillllistine added: "Ashton Court pleeeeeaaaasssseee. Eastville Park has always been too quiet for the outdoor stages anyway,,,, far too close to houses."
In their initial statement, organisers said Tokyo World "may be back next year" in a new location. BristolLive has reached out to the festival on whether other locations are being considered for the future of the event.
Others shared their disappointment at the cancellation and sent well wishes to the organisers. On Facebook, Josh Thomson wrote: "Absolutely gutted. Was looking forward to Pendulum live outside!"
Adam Burrows said: "Really sorry to hear this. Best of luck finding a new site for next time."
Alex Harley added: "Please come back but somewhere further out from bristol where we can camp."
Jo Sayers commented: "Oh no... one of the best festivals of the year - come back stronger."
