Moor Park to be the city’s main outdoor event venue

Moor Park has seen major restoration work in the last two years Pic: Gary Bond

Moor Park is to be formally be the city’s main outdoor event venue in the future.

Preston City Council has approved the use of the park for any large-scale concerts or other events coming to the city.

Many Prestonians will remember the Radio 1 Big Weekend in 2007 at Moor Park and before this the Heineken outdoor shows in Avenham Park in the 1990s.

The city council say due to the drainage and access issues at Avenham Park, with the exception of the historic egg rolling and other small-scale events, the grade-II listed parks are to not be used for large music concerts or other big events.

Rick Moore is aiming to recall the spirit of the Heineken Weekenders which took place in Avenham Park — The Heineken Weekenders which took place in Avenham Park

Instead, Moor Park, which has recently been undergoing a face-lift with more than £2million of lottery money is the flagship event space.

Cabinet member for environment councillor Brian Rollo said: This decision is the formalisation of what is already in practice. Thanks to significant funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Preston City Council has implemented a £2.3 million restoration and refurbishment of Moor Park, which has made it the natural venue to host large events.

“Clarifying the intended use of our spaces enables us to better manage event requests and plan for park maintenance and care.”

Recent events on Moor Park have included the Lancashire Festival, RockPrest and the Preston Caribbean Carnival, as well as the city’s Race for Life and Pretty Muddy runs.

The city council said no large-scale events are confirmed for next year but they hope to announce a programme of events for 2019 in the New Year and the city should ‘expect some familiar favourites’.

Read more: See what’s on in Preston

What would you like to see take place in Moor Park? Let us know in the comments below