They were speaking after an Alliance proposal to temporarily continue using Boucher Playing Fields for future concerts, until an alternative venue becomes available, was voted down at Belfast City Council.
 
Cllr Maghie said: “The closure of Boucher Road as an event space after 2027, without a suitable replacement identified, is short-sighted."
 
“Boucher Playing Fields is one of Northern Ireland’s largest outdoor venues, with the capacity to host large-scale concerts and attract international artists to Belfast.
 
“It was not only a staple in many people’s summer calendar, bringing together fans to see their favourite artists, but it also generated £300k in income for Belfast City Council, and contributes substantially more to the local economy, with music tourism in NI bringing in over £135m and events at Boucher making up a substantial amount of that.
 
“Failure to secure a future venue to host these events will not only hit Belfast’s energetic and vibrant night scene but also have a detrimental economic impact. One weekend of events in Boucher contributes roughly £10m to the local economy.
 
Cllr Murray added: “As a Council, and as a UNESCO City of Music, we have a responsibility to do all we can to support the local music scene in Belfast."
 
“We have an incredibly vibrant grassroots music scene, but it is further enriched by the ability to attract international artists to the city. It wasn’t long ago that artists didn't come to Belfast, and it looks like this will discourage them even more.
 
“While there are local concerns regarding noise levels and anti-social behaviour during events, we have been engaging with the local community and promoters to discuss how these would be addressed. It’s important when organising these events that local voices are heard and listened to.
 
“We look forward to officers coming forward with alternative solutions and a report on the wider economic impact of major events in the city.”