Table of contents
- Fencing Operation And Park Protection
- Fan Reactions And Attempts
- Security Measures And Enforcement
- Council Advice And City-Centre Alternatives
- Sources
Manchester City Council has erected extensive steel and mesh barriers around the grassy knoll known as “Gallagher Hill” in Heaton Park to prevent ticketless Oasis supporters from catching sight of the band’s reunion concerts on giant screens. The move also safeguards newly planted woodland and livestock fields.
Key Takeaways
- Gallagher Hill is now fully fenced to block views and protect the environment.
- Over 2,000 security staff and police officers are deployed at Heaton Park.
- 15 arrests were made during the first two gigs for disorderly conduct and trespass.
- Non-ticket-holders are urged to enjoy city-centre events instead.
Fencing Operation And Park Protection
The council’s dual-purpose barriers span the cattle field’s perimeter, where 300 young trees were planted as part of a woodland restoration scheme. According to the executive member for employment, skills and leisure, additional fencing was deemed necessary after large crowds gathered on the hill during the first two sold-out gigs.
A map of the fenced area shows:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Length of Fencing | Approx. 200 metres |
| Height | 2.5 metres (steel) + 3 metres (mesh) |
| Protected Zone | Newly planted woodland and pasture |
| Visibility | Concert screens fully obscured |
Fan Reactions And Attempts
Prior to the new barriers, hundreds of ticketless fans picnicked on the hill, enjoying sing-alongs and filming each other as Oasis performed. Viral footage showed groups swaying arm in arm to “Half the World Away”.
However, some fans attempted to breach perimeter fencing, with video capturing them scaling fallen panels only to be stopped by a second, taller fence. Social media posts ranged from frustration—“My weekend plans are ruined!”—to defiance: “A fence won’t stop us.”
Security Measures And Enforcement
Manchester’s security operation for the five-gig residency includes:
- Over 2,000 event stewards and police officers patrolling the site.
- A double-walled enclosure with high-security fencing.
- Dispersal orders in surrounding areas to prevent nuisance.
- Drone restrictions, with five drones confiscated during the first weekend.
Following the opening two concerts, 15 arrests were recorded, primarily for public disorder, suspected fraud involving fake accreditation and attempts to enter the arena without tickets.
Council Advice And City-Centre Alternatives
Officials have advised those without tickets to explore Manchester’s city centre, which is hosting live screenings, pop-up bars and family-friendly entertainment. The council emphasises there are:
- No facilities for non-ticket-holders at Heaton Park.
- No clear line of sight once fencing is in place.
- Plenty of alternative events across the city.
“Come and enjoy the party atmosphere,” the council statement reads, “whether you’ve got a Heaton Park ticket or not.”