Rochester Castle Concerts takeover deal could be close as Medway Council says it is 'quite hopeful' of agreeing terms for 2020 shows
10:28, 24 January 2020
updated: 11:15, 24 January 2020
A deal to keep a series of summer concerts going could be close to being agreed.
Medway Council is keen to offload financial responsibility for the Castle Concerts in Rochester after losing £1.6 million in the past 10 years – with £300,000 lost on last year's event.
But whether the 11th century venue will continue to host the gig remains in doubt after concerns were raised about its size to make enough money.
Cllr Howard Doe (Con) told last night's (Thursday's) full council meeting at the St George's Centre in Chatham he remains "quite hopeful" the council will agree terms with a third party to take over the concerts this year.
"We're looking to see if we can put this on this year. We're in negotiations.
"We're quite hopeful we may get it this year and if we do that, we will have achieved quite a lot."
He explained artists now tend to make most of their money through live performances rather than record sales and royalties compared to musicians from previous generations.
This, he said, meant the 4,500 capacity in the grounds at Rochester Castle might not be able to attract "reasonable artists" to bring in big enough crowds to make the events pay.
He was responding to a question posed by Cllr Alex Paterson (Lab) who also called on Cllr Doe to show a "firm will" that Medway bands and performers are given a chance to take to the stage.
Cllr Paterson added: "In addressing the issue of loss of artistic control over future concerts, [the report] merely says any contract negotiated 'can include opportunities within the programme to showcase local talent'."
Cllr Doe defended the £1.6m losses describing them as "not that bad".
"We put on a number of events – festivals, concerts and sporting events. We do them to have a good effect on the Towns and not to make money," he said.
"Many people, including myself, are very proud of our Castle Concerts."
A report published before Christmas revealed discussions are taking place about other sites which could host the concerts.
Locations suggested include the Great Lines Heritage Park in Gillingham.
Cllr Doe again came under fire at the meeting after previously criticising pop star Jess Glynne for "disgracefully" cancelling her appearance at the concert.
The Rather Be singer pulled out two weeks before the show due to ill health sparking a large number of demands for refunds from visitors.
The deputy leader said it had forced the organisers to find a last-minute replacement bringing in Craig David but blamed the losses last year on the turmoil.
He was asked to apologise to Glynne regarding his comments at December's cabinet meeting.
"There were circumstances last year but I see no point in going over that again," Cllr Doe said.
