Bandstand permission pulled over anti-vaccination rally fears - The Redditch Standard

Bandstand permission pulled over anti-vaccination rally fears

Redditch Editorial 9th Dec, 2021 Updated: 9th Dec, 2021   0

A RALLY planned for Redditch’s bandstand on Saturday evening has been banned by the borough council amid fears it could prove a magnetic for anti-vax protesters.

The authority had given permission for the event, reportedly organised by a Birmingham resident, to take place believing it was going to be a music concert.

However after seeking guarantees that it would not carry the anti-vaccination message – and failing to receive them – the council acted to withdraw permission.

A council spokesperson said: “We initially approved the application which was originally proposed as a community music event.




“Subsequent information came to light which suggested the event was to promote anti-vaccination.

“We liaised with the organiser to get more information but adequate details to confirm what the event would be used for were not given, so we have cancelled the event and informed the organiser.”


Councillor Matt Dormer, the Leader of Redditch Borough Council, said: “This Council has supported the Government’s advice to encourage people to get double vaccinated, and now to receive their booster jab, so our communities can continue to protect each other, which the majority of Redditch people are on board with.

“I stand by our officers on this decision because of the lack of clarity around this event, and what it possibly could have become, which is not in the best interest of our residents.”

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