Zoo8 Will Return Despite 'Serious Teething Problems'

The organisers of last weekends Zoo8 Festival have vowed to return in 2009 despite admitting that this year's event was plagued by “serious teething problems”.

Music fans who attended the festival, which took place on a wildlife park in Kent, have claimed that facilities were below standard and improper organisation meant delays of up to five hours getting into the event.

A number of the main attractions, including Dizzee Rascal and Athlete, pulled out on the eve of the event because they had failed to receive payment.

Despite declaring the festival a “qualified success”, organisers have issued an official apology to any fans who thought they were “inconvenienced”.

Responding To Critics

Responding to specific criticisms, Danny Blanche, the festival's co-director, agreed with many fans who had complained that it had taken to long to get onto site on Friday, saying “people turned up much earlier than predicted”.

He also said that the Zoo8's “biggest problem was one of miscalculation over cash-flow”.

“This required us to make pragmatic decision to cancel a few acts,” he continued. “Thankfully, with some vital assistance from Port Lympne Wildlife Park, we managed to keep the show on the road, with the vast majority of the popular acts appearing”

Mr Blanche also noted that problems with the infrastructure of the Big Top Tent – which was closed for the final day – had caused “confusion”.

Specfic Complaints

Writing on Gigwise and a number of festival forums, some festivalgoers have threatened legal action following their experience at the festival.

Matt Dice, the event's co-director, said organisers “will be dealing with any complaints posted on the forum or sent to the office, and will respond to each on a case by case basis.”

He concluded: “Three other festivals went under this very weekend- we’re operating in seriously tough market conditions but we’ll rectify everything from this year and definitely be back for Zoo9”.

What do you think about organiser's comments? Are you satisfied? Let Gigwise know your thoughts by posting a comment below.