Trafford Council Takes Legal Action Against Lancashire Cricket Club and Live Nation Over Red Hot Chili Peppers Concert Incident at Old Trafford

Trafford Council Takes Legal Action Against Lancashire Cricket Club and Live Nation Over Red Hot Chili Peppers Concert Incident at Old Trafford

In a legal move that could have serious consequences for future developments at Manchester United’s proposed new stadium, Trafford Council has filed a lawsuit against Lancashire County Cricket Club.

This action follows an incident in 2022 when a member of the public was injured during a Red Hot Chili Peppers concert at Old Trafford Cricket Ground.

Health and Safety Concerns Spark Legal Action

Trafford Council’s legal action involves not only Lancashire Cricket Club but also Live Nation, the global music promoter responsible for organizing concerts at the venue.

The public injury incident has prompted the council to pursue health and safety charges.

This has raised concerns that Live Nation may rethink its involvement in events in the Trafford area, potentially impacting the plans for Manchester United’s new stadium.

Concerns Over Impact on Manchester United’s Stadium Plans

The case has caught the attention of Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who plays a key role in Manchester United’s vision for a new state-of-the-art stadium.

United is planning to demolish their current ground and replace it with a 100,000-capacity venue, which would host major concerts to boost revenue.

However, the ongoing legal proceedings could complicate the project, especially since Live Nation, the dominant player in global music promotion, is integral to bringing high-profile concerts to the venue.

Legal Proceedings and Potential Setbacks

A preliminary hearing for the case took place last week at Manchester’s Minshull Street Crown Court, and a trial has been scheduled for March 2027.

The incident, which occurred when a truck trapped a visitor against a cabin at the concert, is being treated seriously by the authorities.

While United’s new stadium project has garnered government support, lingering legal issues surrounding concert arrangements could be a significant obstacle.

The Role of Live Nation in the Stadium’s Success

Live Nation, which owns Ticketmaster and is heavily involved in organizing major events worldwide, plays a crucial role in making large stadium venues financially viable through concerts.

As one industry source put it, “You don’t want to upset Live Nation when your new stadium will depend on them to drive revenue from concerts.”

The concern is that any legal disputes involving Live Nation could affect the prospects of bringing top-tier events to Manchester United’s new venue.

Lancashire Cricket Club Faces Financial Risks

Lancashire Cricket Club also stands to suffer consequences from the ongoing legal case.

Concerts and events have been a vital revenue stream for the club, generating millions in 2023 alone.

The club’s conference and events business earned £4.1 million that year.

If the legal action impacts their ability to host concerts, the financial repercussions could be severe.

What’s Next for Lancashire and Trafford Council?

Trafford Council has confirmed that both Lancashire Cricket Club and Live Nation are being prosecuted for health and safety breaches in relation to the 2022 concert incident.

The council feels that the situation was serious enough to warrant legal action.

Lancashire Cricket Club has yet to respond to requests for comment.

As the trial date approaches, the fallout from this case could affect not only the future of events at Old Trafford but also the long-term prospects of Manchester United’s new stadium project.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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