FESTIVAL goers have spoken out against the proposed changes to Basingstoke Live.

This year could be the first time in the two-day festival’s 12-year history where punters would have to pay to get in with the aim that by levying a fee would allow the festival to grow and bring in bigger calibre headline artists.

However, loyal festival goers have accused Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council (BDBC) of cashing in on a community event and “ripping the heart out of the festival”.

One resident, who did not wish to be named, said he has been going to the festival since it first started and felt introducing an entry fee would be taking something away from the town.

He said:"For years this has been a successful festival run by the Basingstoke Live Forum, this idea just screams that the borough council want to take control of it." 

“If you are paying your council tax, then you are already paying towards the festival, so why should we pay to go in again?”

A petition has been set up by Winklebury ward councillor Angie Freeman to keep Basingstoke Live free.

Cllr Freeman said: “The festival is meant to be showcasing local talent, and if they are attempting to bring in bigger headliners it will just become another secondrate festival.”

Under the proposed changes, day tickets for adults would cost £10 and weekend tickets £15.

BDBC cabinet member responsible for arts and culture Cllr Terri Reid said: “The council could not run this borough funded event without working in partnership with the Basingstoke Live music forum who has been involved in programming the stages since the inception of Basingstoke Live.

“This group of local promoters work really hard on the event and there are no plans to change this set up.

“The proposal isn’t to charge people to attend the same event as they have in the past but to attend a fresh new-look event that brings more entertainment for families, better quality headline acts coupled with the very best of Basingstoke’s local music scene across five stages, giving local artists the opportunity to shine at a high-profile music festival.”

To sign the petition click here.