Full Breakdown
Tensions Rise Over Victorious Festival’s Impact on Portsmouth Businesses
By Drooid · · How we work
Festival’s Economic Role and Business Concerns
Portsmouth City Council is reviewing its contracts with Victorious Festival and the Great South Run after local traders voiced strong concerns. Jimmy Norman, director of Clarence Pier, urged the council to “address the impact” of the festival while emphasizing that he does not want the event to leave the city. Business owners on the seafront argue that road closures, parking restrictions and the temporary shutdown of Clarence Esplanade during the August bank-holiday weekend deter customers and reduce sales.
Reported Business Losses
Norman claimed that Clarence Pier has “lost over £900,000 in revenue” over the past ten years, a figure echoed by other merchants who say the festival has cost them “almost £1 million” in lost earnings. The owners of the Big Blue Ticket Company, which runs the pier’s arcades, described themselves as “seriously affected,” citing reduced footfall and limited access for visitors. Similar complaints came from the Coffee Cup café and Blue Reef Aquarium, which reported difficulties securing entry for pre-booked guests.
Council Response and Future Planning
Council officers noted that road closures are based on police recommendations and anti-terrorism legislation. Legal advisers have recommended drafting new contracts that run until 2036 rather than extending the existing agreements.
Key Figures & Statistics
Since relocating to the Southsea seafront in 2014, the festival has generated a £159 million economic boost for Portsmouth, according to Pitt. The 2026 edition attracted 80,000 attendees, headlined by Richard Ashcroft with The Black Keys and closed by Kasabian. The event also donated £926,370 to charities and good causes.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We try to work with every business but some businesses won't work with us.” — James Ralls, managing director and co-founder of Victorious Festival
- “ Coastal Kitchen's Lucy Branson said: "The businesses that succeed are often the ones that adapt, collaborate and look for opportunities, and Victoria has created many of those opportunities.” — Kitchen's Lucy Branson