The Planning Applications Committee of Lambeth Council met on Tuesday 7 July 2026 and unanimously approved a proposal for the temporary use of Clapham Common for the Colourscape Music Festival. The committee also agreed to delegate authority to the Director of Climate Change, Planning and Transport to finalise the recommended conditions for the permission.

Colourscape Music Festival on Clapham Common

The committee granted conditional planning permission for the temporary use of a section of Clapham Common between 8 and 24 September 2026 for the annual Colourscape Music Festival. The event involves the installation of a temporary, inflatable, walk-through structure, along with associated infrastructure such as a welfare marquee, gazebos, a site office, and temporary fencing.

Officers presented the application, highlighting that the Colourscape Music Festival has been held on Clapham Common annually since 1989. The event provides an immersive artistic and educational experience through light, colour, sound, and live music. The proposal was considered to be an appropriate use of Metropolitan Open Land (MOL), preserving its openness and function due to its temporary and fully reversible nature.

While officers identified a very low degree of less than substantial harm to the character and appearance of the Clapham Conservation Area and the Clapham Common Conservation Area in Wandsworth Borough, this was weighed against significant public benefits. These benefits include the provision of accessible cultural, artistic, and educational experiences, with specific mention of free workshops for local schools and pupils with special educational needs. No harm was identified to nearby listed buildings.

The committee discussed potential noise issues, with officers confirming no past complaints and noting that music is projected internally within the structure, minimising external impact. The temporary nature of the installation, including its daily deflation, was also confirmed.

Councillor Kita Ogden, Chair of the Planning Applications Committee, moved to vote on the officer's recommendation to approve the application, which was seconded by Councillor Viktor Westerdahl. The decision was unanimous.

The approved conditions include the removal of all temporary structures by 24 September 2026, adherence to approved event management plans, and limitations on public access hours to between 10:00 and 17:00. Further conditions relate to waste management, vehicle movements, the use of low-emission machinery, and the protection of trees and grassed areas. The decision also delegates authority to the Director of Climate Change, Planning and Transport to finalise these conditions.