Cobo balcony gig to get police presence to deter disturbances
POLICE officers have been asked to attend this weekend’s balcony gig at Cobo Bay Hotel after a fight broke out at the first event of the year last month.
It was a situation that saddened organiser and hotel manager David Nussbaumer after a long run without problems.
‘In 34 years this was the first time we’ve had a punch-up,’ he said.
‘I’ve contacted the police to see if community police could be more of a presence as a deterrent.’
An incident was also said to have occurred near the Iceland store and Mr Nussbaumer said officers being present could help avoid this happening again too.
As well as the disturbance, all the waste stations put out were filled and a minority of people left rubbish behind on the beach.
Attendees are being encouraged to leave ‘nothing but footprints’ at the event, both by the organisers and environmental groups.
Extra provision is also being made this time.
‘We’ve got Island Waste to provide three huge extra bins,’ said Mr Nussbaumer.
A reminder is being created in the form of a large banner saying ‘Keep Cobo Beautiful’ made by Dowding Signs in conjunction with event sponsors JT, which will be hanging from the balcony of the neighbouring Rockmount Hotel.
Last time, broken glass was reported on the road and beach, posing a risk to beach users.
‘People have got to start respecting their island more, instead of using Guernsey as a dumping ground. Just have a conscience and think about keeping Cobo clean.’
Mr Nussbaumer estimates between 3,000 and 4,000 people attended, compared to the usual 2,000 to 3,000.
‘It was absolutely a record number. I’d never seen this many people.’
Helen Quin, the Clean Earth Trust community engagement lead, said the litter left behind was a disappointing outcome of a great afternoon.
‘But what’s worse, is that it happens every year.’
Better planning and infrastructure to cope with waste generated by attendees was suggested to prevent future harm, looking at major festivals and events as examples.
‘[The balcony gigs are] a commercially-organised and sponsored event, and leaving it down to volunteers to take on the clean-up isn’t appropriate.’
Voluntary beach cleaning efforts have been ongoing across the island to protect the environment.
‘We need to remember that the beach is a marine habitat, a home to wildlife, not a dumping ground.
‘Infrastructure aside, we appreciate that this outcome also heavily comes down to individual choices and behaviour. However, there is legislation in place to fine those who litter – so why is this not being imposed, placing responsibility back on the individual? No bin is no excuse.’
n Singer Oceann[corr] kicks off Sunday’s gig at 2.15pm, followed by Rubix, with event headliners City Limits closing the event, which should end at about 7.30pm
n Future gigs are on 20 June, 11 July, 1 August and 29 August.
