Permission sought for major concert in Strabane

A PROMOTIONS company is seeking permission to stage a major, outdoor dance music concert in Strabane this summer, which is hoped could provide a timely boost to the town’s night time economy.

The promoters ‘Electric Arcade,’ have proposed the location for the concert to be the Score Site at the Canal Basin, on June 15.

So far, Electric Arcade have successfully ran 25 other similar events across the North.

The company is owned by Strabane man Eoin Arbuckle who has said that the aim of the event is to bring high profile acts from electronic music to the town.

“Why can’t we have the biggest acts in electronic music coming to Strabane?” asked Eoin.

“The acts I will be announcing are hugely successful and have headlined events like Jika Jika in Derry and played Shine Festival in Belfast. I will also be having local DJs and producers playing the shows as well and I hope to really grow the local scene.

“I am extremely confident that we will get approval for the event and we will be able to have a great day of music the whole of the community can enjoy.”

In a recent letter to Strabane businesses, Electric Arcade said that safety is their number one priority.

The letter stated, “Electric Arcade is currently in the process of developing a one-night dance music event, proposed for June 15, 2024, from 4.30pm to 11pm. This event is intended for attendees aged 18 and above, welcoming music enthusiasts from all walks of life. It is important to note that this event is currently in the proposal stage and has not yet been confirmed.

“We are actively working with the community and businesses ensuring that all necessary permissions and arrangements are in place before proceeding. The venue proposed for this event is the Canal Basin – Score Site. We are committed to organising an event that not only promises an immersive musical experience but also prioritises the comfort and well-being of residents/businesses. Furthermore, as part of our commitment to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees, Electric Arcade will be providing trained security guards throughout the event.”

The event organisers have been working closely with a number of local councillors and businesses to ensure the event goes ahead, including Sinn Féin councillor Brian Harte.

Cllr Harte said, “The promoter came to me with an idea and asked if we could work together to navigate the process within council to get this event successfully off the ground.

“Since being elected to council last June I have been proactive in seeking out new opportunities for Strabane town and district, including efforts to attract events which our young people are having to travel further afield to see. This is just the start of a number of exciting ideas that Electric Arcade have and will complement the Summer (Jamm) Festival programme in Strabane going forward.”

Publican and independent councilor Raymond Barr said he would support the event has long as it meets the health and safety criteria of council.

Cllr Barr said, “There is a lacking of festivals in Strabane and a well run event would be a major boost to the town’s night time economy.”

A spokesperson for Derry City and Strabane District Council confirmed members of the Business and Culture Committee approved the application for the festival this week, however this is subject to ratification at March’s Full Council meeting later this month. The spokesperson also confirmed there are a number of conditions regarding the hire of the site and council officers will work closely with the event organiser.