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UK festival faces late licence review ahead of May event
May3
Wiltshire’s Shindig Festival is set to undergo a last-minute licence review following public safety concerns raised in relation to its 2026 edition.
Wiltshire Council confirmed it will review the event licence just days before Shindig festival is scheduled to begin on 21 May, after an unidentified individual submitted formal objections citing potential risks around “crime and disorder” and “public safety” linked to the booking of headliner Bob Vylan.
According to a filing with the council, the complaint referenced criticism of the artist’s past statements, including allegations of inflammatory and divisive rhetoric. Under the UK’s Licensing Act 2003, any individual can request a review of an event licence.
Wiltshire councillor Paul Sample told the BBC that the matter will be considered by an independent licensing sub-committee, with the review expected to take place during the week of the festival.
The council has previously stated it does not influence artist bookings but will work with relevant stakeholders to ensure compliance with legislation.
The booking of Bob Vylan follows wider industry scrutiny of the act after previous performances prompted public debate and police complaints. Authorities in London and Avon & Somerset reviewed allegations but concluded that the threshold for criminal proceedings was not met. The artist has denied allegations of antisemitism and has taken legal action against certain media claims.
In a statement, festival organisers said: “Safety has always come first at Shindig and under no circumstance would we allow that to change. We are working closely with our production team, the artist and the authorities to ensure we have a robust plan in place to address these concerns.”
The outcome of the review could have implications for the event’s final preparations, highlighting ongoing operational and reputational considerations for UK festivals around programming and public safety compliance.
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