T in the Park slashes festival capacity by 15,000 for Strathallan

THE capacity for this year's T in the Park has been reduced by 15,000 after complaints about overcrowding marred last year's festival.

T in the Park, held last year for the first time at Strathallan. Picture: Lisa Ferguson

Revellers who buy their tickets before midnight on May 8 are also being given free bus travel to and from the festival as it attempts to woo back disappointed music fans.

The festival’s maximum attendance will be capped at 70,000 after its public entertainment license was adjusted.

Last year’s festival, held at Strathallan for the first time, prompted anger among festivalgoers who struggled with traffic congestion, overcrowding and pedestrian safety.

Organisers hope that the measures will placate council chiefs, who earlier this year produced a dossier that demanded a total overhaul of the festival.

T in the Park’s Geoff Ellis – who intends to increase the amount of signage and space inside the arena – insisted that organisers had listened to people’s concerns.

“Our fans are our number one priority and we’ve listened to all of their feedback from last year and now we’re putting that into action,” he said.

“These changes will ensure that watching the wide array of amazing artists at the stages, as well as moving around the main arena, will be much more comfortable and a positive experience for all fans.”

Melvin Benn, executive producer at T in the Park said: “The changes we’ve made to the management structure, arena, security, campsite and travel will make for a positive festival experience.

“The new arena layout gives more room, better stage positions and makes the most of the stunning site.”

Headliners for the festival, taking place from 8-10 July, include Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Stone Roses and Calvin Harris.

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