The Clapham Bandstand Concerts, a cherished South London summer tradition, face an uncertain future after funding was reportedly slashed by more than 50 per cent. The free Sunday concerts on Clapham Common have drawn thousands of residents and visitors for years, but this year the Clapham Common Management Advisory Committee (CCMAC) was told funding would be cut ahead of the May local elections.
Community steps in to raise funds
Petr Kaiser, an elected CCMAC member, organised a GoFundMe campaign to ensure the concerts could proceed. He said: "Funding has been cut by 50 per cent. Funding for parks has been cut across the board. Previously, they funded the bandstand concerts in full." The community rallied, raising enough money to cover the shortfall. Kaiser added: "The community immediately said they would come together to help pay for it." Lambeth Council will contribute £2,500 this year, but Kaiser noted: "We're not sure what next year will bring. We hope the Greens will undo or continue with the funding."
Council denies funding cut
Lambeth Council, now under its first-ever Green Party administration elected with Liberal Democrat support, disputed claims of a cut. A spokesperson said: "It is incorrect to say that the council has cut funding for the free Clapham Common Bandstand concerts. The council remains supportive of the Bandstand concerts." The council stated that the funding will be split: £2,500 from the events revenue budget and another £2,500 from the Clapham Common Parks Investment Levy allocation. However, CCMAC insists that using the Parks Investment Levy requires their agreement, not a unilateral council decision.
Dispute over funding allocation
The council explained that the change is internal, not a reduction: "There has been a change in the way the funding is allocated internally, but not a reduction in the overall level of support. The concerts will continue to be supported at the same level as previously." They emphasised that income from other parks events helps sustain free cultural activities. Despite this, CCMAC remains cautious about future funding.
Concerts continue for now
The Clapham Bandstand Concerts run every Sunday from 2pm to 4pm through the summer. On June 22, Brass United Club will perform, alongside a street food market. The community's fundraising has secured this year's series, but the long-term outlook depends on council decisions and continued public support.
