Cost of Big Bang Bonfire explodes as visitor numbers plummet

Per attendee, the cost of hosting the event has more than doubled, according to data released under the Freedom of Information Act.

This year’s Big Bang Bonfire cost £55,000 to put on, compared to just £41,696.35 last year – a rise of more than 30 per cent.

Oldham Council leader Arooj Shah has defended the event by saying it reduces strain on emergency services as people do not hold their own bonfires.

The event, in its 11th year, saw rides, food stalls, and dancing, as well as the titular bonfire and 20-minute fireworks display. Similar events in some areas across the country, such as in Manchester, have been cancelled due to budget concerns.

Cost per-head more than doubles

According to Oldham Council, this year’s event saw an estimated 5,000 visitors, down from 8,000 in 2022 – a 37.5 per cent drop in visitors.

This means this year’s free-to-attend event cost the council £11 per head, compared to last year’s £5.21 per head.

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Oldham Council refused to break down the costs of the event further, saying the breakdown was exempt from release as it was considered commercially sensitive.

Additionally, the council said it held no information when asked for the estimated environmental impact of the event, offering no environmental impact report or estimated CO2 equivalent mass for the event.

At the event, weather, which left visitors navigating muddy ground, was blamed for the lower attendance.

Weather blamed, but event 'important' to Oldham

Speaking at the event, V Fresh Catering’s David Woodhead said: “It’s normally been alright, a bit poor tonight just because of the weather and the numbers, but it’s normally spectacular, it’s normally a really good event.”

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Attendees also stressed that they felt the event was important.

The bonfire (Image: Jack Fifield, Newsquest)

Limeside resident Suzanne Barnes said she thought the event was important, adding: “We don’t really have much going on, so the things that do go on, like at Christmas and things like this, it’s good for the town.

“It’s good for everybody to get together really, and show that we’re all one, if you know what I mean.”

Council leader defends event amid cost of living crisis

Cllr Shah said: “We know many families are struggling financially due to the cost of living crisis, especially at this time of year.

“That’s why we thought it was important to hold the Big Bang Bonfire, which as usual was free to attend.

“If you look at the figures in black and white they will look high, but you’ve also got to take into account that it brought thousands of people together for a fun and free night out.

“Around five thousand people enjoyed this popular event this year.

“By organising the Big Bang we are making sure less people are holding their own bonfires and fireworks displays, saving them money and helping to cut demand on the emergency services at one of their busiest times.” 

If you have a story, I cover the whole borough of Oldham. Please get in touch at jack.fifield@newsquest.co.uk or click to send me a message on WhatsApp or on Signal on 07517566383.