Twickenham given concert go-ahead
October 5, 2001

The RFU has succeeded in gaining consent to stage three concerts at Twickenham Stadium between June and October 1st in any calendar year.

Francis Baron, RFU Chief Executive said, "We are pleased at the outcome and are keen to work with the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames to make this an outstanding success for Twickenham and the local community."

The Secretary of State's Inspector, Mr J I McPherson, in giving his decision noted, "The present loss of Wembley Stadium has left the London area short of a venue for the large concerts which used to be staged there. There is considerable demand for such concerts on a worldwide scale and there is a need for some to be held in the UK, preferably in the London area, in order to benefit the music industry. At the same time, these concerts would also benefit the tourism industry and the game of rugby union, which as a sport is an important component of civilised life."

The Inspector noted that notwithstanding its contention that Twickenham Stadium could lawfully be used for concerts, the RFU had chosen to submit the appeal application. This gave an opportunity for the matter to be fully discussed. The Inspector imposed a number of conditions which mirrored the restrictions and benefits which the RFU had willingly offered.

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