Understand
Questions continue over Penrith Winter Droving move discussions
Overview
Discussions regarding the relocation of the Winter Droving festival from Penrith to Carlisle were underway while organisers Eden Arts were still claiming the event would take place in its usual location. Freedom of Information emails show that talks with Cumberland Council began in July, with organisers initially attempting to run events in both locations. While Eden Arts cited financial challenges and a lack of sponsorship for moving, local business representatives expressed anger, stating that trust has gone and pointing out that required road closure paperwork for Penrith was never submitted. In response to the move, a new local event called The Gathering is being planned in Penrith.
Key points
- The Winter Droving festival, held in Penrith for 14 years, was relocated to Carlisle, sparking local outrage.
- Freedom of Information emails reveal discussions with Cumberland Council regarding a Carlisle event began in July.
- Eden Arts stated it attempted to run events in parallel to achieve economies of scale before abandoning the Penrith plans due to financial viability.
- Westmorland and Furness Council confirmed that temporary traffic regulation order paperwork for the Penrith event was not applied for this year.
- Penrith Business Improvement District representatives stated that trust in Eden Arts has gone and local businesses are organising a new event called The Gathering.
- Arts Council England funding was transferred to support the event in Carlisle after delivery in Penrith was deemed unviable.