A PETITION is calling for a World Cup Final screening event in Lichfield to be shown the red card.
The fanzone is being run by organisers of the Symphonic Ibiza and Beacon Park Tribute Festival on 19th July.
Tickets to the football screening event in the park are starting at £3.50, but now pub bosses in Lichfield want full time to be called on it instead.
The petition organiser, Lexie Brown from the George IV pub, said the Beacon Park screening would damage local businesses.
She said:
"As bricks and mortar business owners in Lichfield, we pour our hearts, resources and dreams into our community 365 days a year. Our investments are not just financial – they represent our commitment to provide sustained local employment, contribute vibrantly to city life and fulfill our obligations through substantial business rates.
"This loyal dedication feels overshadowed by the decision to outsource a prime trading opportunity to an out-of-town temporary operator with the introduction of the Beacon Park fanzone.
"It is poised to redirect foot traffic away from our high street, potentially threatening the future of local businesses that have become the backbone of our community.
"Our local pubs, historic in their charm and significance, stand to suffer as temporary installations lure patrons away with fleeting promise, undermining the longer-lasting value we provide."
Lexie added that while large one-off events might seem appealing, they "directly undermine" local businesses.
She said:
"What's at stake is not just a loss of immediate revenue, but a gradual erosion of community spirit that thrives on local interaction and economic circulation.
"According to recent studies referenced by business networks and local councils, consistent local spending assures a 63% return to the community, compared to just 39% from national chains or temporary setups that fail to reinvest locally.
"Lichfield’s local pubs invest heavily in our community all year round. They show sporting events of all kinds — football, boxing, rugby and racing – and rely on major tournaments to sustain their businesses through tougher financial times.
"We urge the council to protect Lichfield's independent businesses and nighttime economy by withdrawing permission for the Beacon Park fanzone event and instead encourage residents and visitors to watch the games in our fantastic local pubs instead, keeping revenue within our community."
The petition can be found online.
