Plans for a series of major concerts at Blackweir Fields in Cardiff this summer are moving forward, with organisers confirming five headline shows while a planning application is currently under consideration.
The events, branded as Blackweir Live, are set to bring a number of high-profile acts to the Welsh capital, including The Cure on June 24, Teddy Swims on June 26, Lewis Capaldi on June 30 and July 1, and Pitbull on July 4.
A premises licence for the site was approved in April 2025, allowing for up to six events to be held at Blackweir Fields each year.
However, full planning permission for the 2026 concerts has not yet been granted. Cardiff Council has submitted an application, which is now open for public consultation.
Residents and interested parties can view the plans under reference number 26/00507/FUL via the council’s planning portal, with comments invited until April 16.
The need for planning permission follows a legal clarification around the use of land for temporary events. Previously, events could take place under a 28-day ‘change of use’ rule without formal permission. However, a High Court judgement in May 2025 confirmed that event setup and breakdown must be included within that 28-day period.
As a result, the total time required for this summer’s concerts exceeds the permitted limit, meaning formal planning approval is now required. If granted, the application would allow similar events to take place at the site annually until 2031.
Cardiff Council is acting as both the applicant and the Local Planning Authority in this case, which is permitted under planning regulations. The authority says strict processes are in place to ensure transparency and fairness.
The application will be assessed in line with standard procedures, including a review by planning officers and a final decision by the Planning Committee, made up of elected councillors. Any decision can ultimately be challenged through the courts.
If approved, the concerts are expected to draw large crowds to the popular riverside location, further boosting Cardiff’s growing reputation as a major live events destination.
