UK’s second biggest carnival is AXED over ‘national security threat’ after becoming ‘increasingly vulnerable target’
ORGANISERS of the UK's second biggest carnival have decided to cancel the event amid fears over "elevated national threat levels."
An "extensive security review" led to the cancellation of the festival with organisers and the local authority raising concerns.
The move to cancel Harborne Carnival comes after a string of attacks at events around the world have sparked fears for public safety.
Concern around the safety of public events has been growing in recent months with the Lapu-Lapu day festival tragedy sparking major fears.
The heightened security measures come after an attack which left 11 people dead in Vancouver, Canada last month
Following attacks at a number of public events across the globe in recent months, concern for public safety has skyrocketed.
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Organisers of the Harborne Carnival decided to cancel their event amid these growing security concerns.
The carnival, originally planned for June 22 in Birmingham, was axed yesterday with organisers planning to refund stallholders and participants.
Similarly, the Birmingham St Patrick's Day Parade was postponed in March.
The decision to axe the event came following a meeting of the carnival committee, Birmingham City Council’s Safety Advisory Group, West Midlands Police, and Home Office officials.
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The City Council's Safety Advisory Group asked organisers how they would mitigate the risk of a major incident.
They were particularly concerned about the open side streets along the carnival route.
Paul Burgess MBE, Chair of Harborne Carnival, said: “The Harborne Family Carnival is a highlight for our community, and with preparations already underway, this decision was not taken lightly.
"We fully understand the disappointment this brings to families, traders, and partners who make the carnival a success each year.
"Our safety record over the last 27 years has always been strong, and this is an area we’re not willing to compromise on.
"Recent global incidents have led to new requirements for enhanced security, such as better protection of the many side streets that connect to the main carnival area.
"These changes present significant logistical and financial challenges that we simply cannot overcome in time for this year’s event.
"Public safety is our top priority, and our attention now turns to 2026.
"We’re actively exploring new locations and formats that can meet the latest safety guidance while preserving the community spirit that makes the Harborne Carnival so special.”
Organisers said no 'specific threat' was identified in their security review.
Despite this the event was cancelled with fears around public safety sited in the review.
It was decided that for the event to run safely the carnival would need enhanced barriers, increased stewarding and additional access routes for emergency services.
Organisers concluded that it would not be possible to implement the extensive extra measures in time for the event.
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A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: "We are aware of the decision to cancel Harborne Carnival, but have not advised the organisers to do so.
"We work with a range of partners to offer advice on public safety at events across the region throughout the year."
