No fairground bookings were made for Weymouth’s May half-term this year, as rising parking fees significantly increased the cost of using the Pavilion site. This information was detailed in a report presented to Weymouth Town Council, which is set to decide on dates for next year’s funfair.
The rental fee for the Pavilion forecourt, where the funfair is traditionally held, is calculated based on parking charges and the number of spaces occupied. Tonight, the council’s Environment and Services Committee will determine the proposed funfair dates for 2025. The suggested dates are:
- April 5 to April 21 (Easter holidays)
- May 3 to May 5 (May Day weekend)
- May 24 to June 1 (May half term)
- July 26 to August 31 (summer holidays)
- October 25 to November 2, including November 5 (Bonfire Night)
Additional dates of August 8th to 20th at the Jubilee Clock have also been proposed.
Fairground operators are being encouraged to enhance energy efficiency and reduce reliance on diesel generators.
Since December 2022, a small number of residents and businesses have expressed concerns about the seasonal fairground operating at the Pavilion forecourt. Due to increased parking fees, the rental cost rose, preventing council officers from securing bookings for the 2024 May half-term, with costs deemed “too high.”
Jake Brewer