Boardmasters organisers have pledged to improve relations with local residents in Newquay following problems at recent editions of the event. Director Rob Spring outlined new measures to enhance safety and reduce disruption ahead of the 2026 festival.
The UK music festival faced criticism over a 2024 crowd surge that led to seven hospitalisations and 11 arrests for drug, sexual and assault offences. Traffic congestion also caused major issues that year, prompting organisers to overhaul their management plan with input from local experts.
For the 2025 event, enhanced security, medical support and traffic protocols were introduced. Spiking reports dropped to 14 cases from 55 the previous year, with all tests returning negative results, according to CEO Andrew Topham. An independent review of the 2024 surge informed the changes.
Spring told BBC Radio Cornwall that being a "better neighbour" remains critical. He expressed hope that the August 5 to 9 2026 edition, featuring headliners Lily Allen, Kasabian and Fatboy Slim, will foster community benefits while spotlighting Cornwall.
The festival, which began in 1981 as a surfing competition, now combines music with surf and skate contests.