Funding for Community

Events on The Sidings

Community Events Fund

Look Again and Towner have launched the BN9 Community Events Fund to support more events to take place at the Sidings in the summer of 2026. 

This event fund is open to all organisations, groups, promoters or other organisations who are experienced and ready to run a show at the venue this summer. Successful applicants will receive an award to the value of up-to £1,000 on top of free use of the outdoor events site.

The whole package includes

  • Up to £500 towards the awardees’ event costs

  • No site rental for use of The Sidings

  • Free use of marquee

  • Free use of the in-situ PA system (see kit list below)

*An optional upgrade is available that includes sound engineer, bigger desk, extra mics / mic stands, and monitors for £375 a gig.

  • 1 Site manager for 8-hour shift (any longer will be charged on)

  • 1 Security steward (Abyss will also have one security steward in the evening enabling a capacity of 200. If a capacity of 201+ is needed, we can provide extra security for an extra charge)

  • No charge for refuse and recycling 

  • No charge for power

  • ½ day mentoring and support from Look Again

  • Included in all BN9 marketing and comms

  • On-site load-on and load-oof parking, nearby off-site parking

You will be responsible for:

  • Booking, liaising and organising all performers 

  • Every aspect of event management including producing an Event Management Plan and Risk Assessment

  • Your own public, employers’ liability (obligatory) & equipment & cancellation insurance (optional)

  • Stewarding at appropriate numbers for the event

The site is catered for by ABYSS Brewing who have the license to sell alcohol and sell delicious pizza and soft drinks. No other food or drink vendors are permitted on site.  

Organisations may only apply once for the Community Fund.

Organisations wishing to apply for grants should complete the short application form below before 31st May 2026:

    • FOH Sound System - QSC K Series.  

    • QSC K12.2 x2 (FOH)

    • QSC K SUB (FOH) x2

    • (QSC K SERIES SYSTEM) (approx. £5k to buy new)

    • Yamaha DXR 12 Powered Wedges x3 (approx. £1,500 in total to buy)

    • Midas MR18 Mixing Desk (£630 to buy)

    • Basic Microphone / Stand package

    • All cables, power and stands included. 

    • Two Portman p1 LED HEX Stage Lights on stands and weighted base

    • 4 Chauvet Large Uplighters

    • 2 LED Chavuet Bars

    • 6 LED Chavuet Washes.