A potential operator of the Bournemouth Air Festival has pulled out of discussions with BCP Council, meaning the event is highly unlikely to return.
In a meeting on Monday night, Councillor Richard Herrett confirmed a un-named American operator had written to the Council saying they would find it challenging to deliver a profitable event to Bournemouth, and regret the decision to pull out after a substantial amount of internal discussion and deliberation.
The main reason for pulling out was the lack of ability to fence off the airshow and make a suitable profit.
Options on the table during the Board meeting were to retest the market, seek further sponsorship, or cease active work to bring the event back.
The BCP Council Overview and Scrutiny Board therefore voted in favour of not pursuing the event for next year.
A final decision will be made by the Council next month.
Cllr Herrett, Portfolio Holder for Destination Leisure and Commercial Operations, reminded everyone that BCP Council has the ability to put on the event, and if someone was willing to give them £400,000, they would happily do so.
Councillor Millie Earl, Leader of BCP Council, said: “Along with other councils, ours is in a challenging financial situation which is why the Bournemouth Air Festival in 2024 was to be the last council funded air show.
“Over the past year, we have worked hard to engage a future operator and seek sponsorship for future Air Festivals but unfortunately this has so far been unsuccessful.
“We are still open to any interest from potential operators or sponsors.
“In the meantime, we remain invested in the cultural future of our beautiful area and are continuing to work with our partners and support others where we can, to help deliver a vibrant economy for residents and visitors with events such as the Bay Run, Arts By the Sea Festival and Christmas in Bournemouth planned.”