Poole Quay summer events at risk as council cuts funding

There was rife online speculation that BCP Council would cancel several popular events along the quay this summer. 

While no events have been cancelled, discussions are ongoing between the council and organisations to find a way forward to allow the popular events to continue. 

These events include Dream Machines, Quay for my Car, Mini Steam on the Quay and Folk on the Quay – all of which the council will no longer be offering money to help run.

Folk on the Quay is at risk

Deputy council leader Millie Earl said the authority has had to balance the books in its budget, which includes “some tough choices” like cutting funding for events. 

Events which the council has confirmed it will fund this year include the four weeks of fireworks displays in August and Bonfire Night’s display, the Christmas Maritime Light Trail and New Years Bath Race & Classic Cars. 

In line with last year’s arrangements, the council is working with businesses to secure funding for an extra two firework events either side of August. 

Cllr Earl said: “We are continuing to fund the fireworks that light up Poole Quay in August and November and supporting other great events that bring people to the Quay during the winter months. 

“As well as this, we are working hard with Poole Quay’s fantastic business community on options to ensure that other events which the council can no longer support financially can still take place. 

“The financial pressures facing all local authorities meant that balancing our budget required some tough choices. 

The fireworks are saved

“The council must move to a new way of working and become an organisation that enables others to take on some of the great work that has made these events popular.” 

Jacqui Rock, Poole BID lead, has said she will continue to work with the council and stakeholders to “ensure voices are heard”. 

She added: “We are fully aware that we must consider a new way of working in these uncertain times and we have been working hard in the background to ensure that new opportunities exist too, whilst also listening to our levy payers to fulfil other responsibilities written in our business plan and from recent survey feedback.” 

Harry Paye Day, which is organised by the Pirates of Poole, will go ahead with the council promising to fund the road closure and provide staff like other years. 

Last year, Poole Seafood Festival was axed by organisers - this event was not run by BCP Council.

Ben Dyas of Poole Seafood Festival, said: “After much consideration it has become clear that it is not possible to deliver a viable festival under present conditions, so sadly we will not be taking up the option to run the event for the third year of the tender."

This was eventually replaced by a BID-run event in September called Seafood & Sounds.