T in the Park boss Geoff Ellis will ramp up security at next year’s festival campsite as part of a raft of measures to improve on high profile failings.
In a website statement announcing new dates for next year’s event at Strathallan Castle in Perthshire of July 8 – 10, the event chief took the opportunity to address areas that will be improved.
Mr Ellis came under fire following this year’s event amid social media footage of campsite violence and traffic chaos.
He identified a list of eight improvements to traffic management including employing additional consultants, new plans for shuttle buses, changes to car park management, a possible park and ride facility, better ‘welfare facilities’, improved links to Gleneagles railway station and stronger communication with private coach drivers.
In more general improvements, all staff will be better briefed, volunteer Help Teams will come back into the campsite to support stewards and welfare teams will provide information and assistance.
On-site signage will be adapted and pick up points will be reviewed.
There will be a new website and a series of focus groups to discuss further improvements.
In the arena there will be changes to site layout including more seating options.
The Citizen T campsite will return and there will be a greater variety of food.
Mr Ellis said: “We sincerely apologise to any members of the surrounding local community that were adversely affected by the traffic and pedestrian issues at this year’s festival.
“We will be working hard to make sure that we keep our promises to you for next year and indeed, the long term.
“We will build upon the work we did last year with Community Councils and develop further local engagement through our TLocal site.”
T in the Park has pledged to continue to work closely with the relevant environmental organisations in our planning for 2016, including those protecting the local ospreys.
Mr Ellis added: “We are confident that T in the Park will work well at Strathallan Castle for many years to come but the lessons we’ve learned during this difficult transitional year alongside your valued and constructive feedback will make sure that we do much better in 2016.
“We’re committed to making sure your festival is the best it can be, we’ll continue to listen and act on your feedback and we’ll always strive to keep improving and developing T in the Park.”