The Bournville Village Children's Festival, a cherished local tradition with over a century of history, is set to make a comeback this year after being disrupted by trouble in recent editions. However, organisers have announced a series of major changes designed to prioritise safety and restore the event's family-friendly atmosphere.
Key Modifications to Address Past Incidents
In response to feedback from the community and challenges with anti-social behaviour, the festival will undergo significant alterations. Most notably, the fireworks display has been permanently removed from the programme. This decision follows two consecutive years where the event descended into violence, prompting police intervention and safety concerns.
Previous Troubles Prompt Action
Last June, the festival's finale fireworks were cancelled after large groups of teenagers gathered, leading to disturbances. During this incident, a security worker was reportedly injured, and a 13-year-old girl was arrested on suspicion of assault. The previous year, in June 2023, organisers were forced to pull the plug entirely on the event at Cadbury Recreation Ground due to similar issues with youth gatherings.
Enhanced Safety Measures and Timings
To mitigate risks, the festival will now operate with revised hours, opening at midday and concluding earlier at 6pm. Additionally, organisers are reverting to the event's original name, 'Bournville Village Children's Festival', to emphasise its core focus. Attractions and rides will be updated to be more family-friendly, though traditional elements like the two Maypoles will remain, honouring the festival's historical roots.
Strict Supervision Requirements
New supervision rules have been implemented to ensure a secure environment. Children under the age of ten must be accompanied by a fee-paying adult, while all attendees under 18 must be with an adult throughout the event. These measures aim to prevent unsupervised gatherings that contributed to past problems.
Community Feedback Drives Changes
Organisers have stressed that these adjustments are a direct result of listening to community concerns. In a social media announcement on January 30, they expressed a commitment to protecting and continuing this beautiful tradition. While no specific date has been set for this year's festival, the focus is firmly on creating a safe, enjoyable experience for families in Birmingham.
The return of the Bournville Village Children's Festival marks a hopeful step forward, balancing tradition with modern safety needs to ensure its longevity for future generations.
