Published on Tuesday 18 July 2023
BCP Council is establishing a working group with the business community to explore options for the future funding of the Bournemouth Air Festival.
This year’s festival takes place on August 31-September 3.
But the significant financial pressures on the council means that BCP Council’s Three Towns Alliance leadership must look at new ways of sustainably financing the free event in future.
Portfolio Holder for Connected Communities and Tourism, Cllr Millie Earl said: "Currently, there is a £44m shortfall in the 2024-25 council budget and the Bournemouth Air Festival is a major event in the calendar for 2024.
"The festival has traditionally always been heavily subsidised by our residents, this year by around £400,000. A huge amount of officer time goes into organising the festival which is not included in that figure.
"In view of the financial pressures on the council and at a time when cost of living pressures continue to affect our everyday services and the budgets of our residents, it is right that we look at future options for the Bournemouth Air Festival, particularly how it could be sustainably funded.
"We know that hoteliers and hospitality businesses in Bournemouth consider BAF as a key component of their season and that many people enjoy attending but we must balance these needs with the costs that are borne by residents living across Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole."
Cllr Earl added: "We want to use the opportunity, through a task and finish group, to spend some additional time exploring the views and ideas of those closely involved with the festival, including hoteliers, restauranteurs, event organisers and a range of other partners and stakeholders.
"We would like those in our business community with an interest in the air festival to work with us on exploring the options. These conversations are beginning now and will continue during the air festival itself.
"As soon as practicable afterwards and to give the business community both certainty and plenty of time to plan for 24/25, we will announce what next year will look like.
"The conversations will provide us with a thorough and rounded view on which to base any decisions regarding the future of the Bournemouth Air Festival.
"We want to continue to attract visitors and support businesses, we just need to do this in a financially and environmentally sustainable way that works for all.
Although there will not be a formal public consultation process, the council will welcome any views from our residents.
A recommendation is likely to go to Cabinet in October.
Notes for editors
For more information, pictures of interviews, please contact the BCP Council Press Office by emailing press.office@bcpcouncil.gov.uk or call 01202 817808