Beach concert plans withdrawn

A concert promoter has scrapped plans for a two or three-day event at Portrush's East Strand.

In September members Causeway Coast and Glens Council Land and Property sub-committee, agreed 'in principle' to handover the beach car park for “a live outdoor music event” next year.

The decision, later ratified by the full council, was in response to a request from promoter ORW Productions.

Members gave the go ahead, subject to due process being followed including “valuation and satisfactory evidence and documentation being submitted for review”.

One month later however, the sub committee was told the promoter had pulled out.

While both meetings were held behind-closed-doors, minutes record a senior officer reporting that a valuation for use of the land had been obtained but, in the meantime, “communication had been received from ORW Productions advising they did not wish to pursue the request due to a potential for another key event taking place at that time and the financial commitment involved.”

The minutes go on to record that Sub-committee chair Michelle Knight McQuillan expressed “disappointment” but said she understood the rational behind the promoter's decision.

While members were told of a potential clash with a “key event” in June, the minutes record no further details

Councillors heard it would be subject to “due diligence” but at this stage “there was no information to provide to Elected Members”.

According to ORW Promotions' website, they are “a Northern Ireland–based promotional company specialising in artist bookings, event management, and live entertainment promotion.

“We work with leading acts across the country, delivering high-quality events and festivals, as well as producing and promoting live touring shows in top venues throughout Ireland and the UK

The roster of artists the company has worked with includes Nathan Carter, Phil Coulter and Hugo Duncan.