The organisers of the Heavenly Planet festival in Reading have called off the event due to the current economic climate.
So the credit crunch has claimed another victim. With the trickle of postponed festivals becoming a gushing stream, it seems that the collapse in the American sub-prime market could well have a major effect on your summer plans.
Heavenly Planet would bring world music back to Reading. In previous years, WOMAD brought a variety of stunning musical acts to the city and since this ceased in 2006 the occupants have longed for something to take its place.
The organisers of the event promised an event which would cater for 15,000 people and have at least three stages. To make the festival open to everyone there would be no price on admission, with headliners including The Wonder Stuff.
However, Heavenly Planet Festival in Reading will not now take place.
“It is with regret that we make this announcement to cancel our new festival Heavenly Planet which was due to take place in Reading in July,” said Melvin Benn of organisers Festival Republic.
“The worsening economic crisis and circumstances beyond our control have been major factors in the final decision.”
Graeme Hoskin a member of Reading Borough Council said: “People everywhere are tightening their belts and making savings and we are no different. Through no fault of his own, Thomas was no longer able to make the equal financial commitment necessary. Whilst this is unfortunate, as a Council we do not feel we can commit any more public money to cover the additional costs that are now needed.”
