Unofficial events at SXSW under threat according to new report

A report commissioned by SXSW festival in Austin, Texas has suggested changes that could resort in the limiting or an outright ban on unofficial showcases and artists.

The report was published in direct response to a tragic car crash incident at SXSW 2014, which saw four people killed in a late night accident.

Populous - an event planning consultant - issued a report and recommended further safety procedures for the 2015 event.

Amongst other recommendations - including “soft searching” for prohibited items - the report outlined a potential plan for a “clean zone” of the area. This would give further exclusivity to official events, forming a perimeter that wouldn’t allow for unofficial showcases. Its intention is to “protect the brand equity of SXSW and its sponsors but would be made to work with existing businesses and their interests so as to uphold sponsor values and private property rights.”

These recommendations have been issued in light of SXSW’s increasing demand and safety concerns. It states that the festival may have to leave its current location if these changes are not enforced in due time. [via Texas Monthly]