This year’s Download festival was not only noted for its star-studded line up, but it also won an award for its commitment to accessibility. Organisers added viewing platforms to each stage and increased shuttle bus services to and from the campsite for disabled fans. 18 performances were also interpreted in British Sign Language and an on request service was available. These commitments did not go unnoticed, and Download was awarded the gold standard of Attitude is Everything’s Charter of Best Practice.
Download’s achievement makes it only the third festival with an over 80,000 capacity to be recognised. Glastonbury Festival was the first, while Reading Festival was second.
2018 also saw the launch of the festival’s first eco campsite, sponsored by Greenpeace, which meant campers had to take all of their rubbish and camping equipment home, as well as an incentive scheme, where fans could earn cash rewards for recycling their plastic.
