Springsteen appeal to be adjourned

Blaise Tapp


THE appeal hearing about whether or not rock star Bruce Springsteen can perform in Manchester will carry on for an extra day.

Trafford magistrates were finishing today's hearing at 6pm and were preparing to adjourn it to another day, possibly tomorrow (Thurs).

Last month Trafford councillors voted to stop the concert after hearing concerns from residents. But the club appealed to the court with world renowned promoter Harvey Goldsmith giving evidence.

Earlier today, Lancashire County Cricket Club told magistrates they would be dealt a serious financial blow if next month's Bruce Springsteen concert is cancelled.

Income

Susanna Fitzgerald QC, for Lancashire County Cricket Club, said the income generated by the concerts held at Old Trafford Cricket Ground was "incredibly important" to the club.

She admitted there had been loutish behaviour by fans at last year's Oasis concerts, but she insisted that Springsteen fans were different.

Lessons had been learned from the Oasis gigs and there would be better stewarding.

The club was already under serious financial pressure because of £25m plans to maintain the ground as an international cricketing venue, she said. Around £1m was being spent upgrading facilities.

She said: "If it wants to be an international cricket ground, over the next few years that could cost them possibly £25m.

"There are huge financial pressures."

Money generated from the concerts is used to promote cricket and fund educational programmes.

The concert is due to take place on May 29 and 50,000 tickets have been sold.


30/04/2003