Coldplay enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the band’s upcoming performances in Toronto this week, amid concerns raised about the suitability of Rogers Stadium as the concert venue. Located in north Toronto, the new open-air stadium with a seating capacity of 50,000 will host the British rock band for four shows scheduled from Monday to Saturday.
Maria Strachan, who plans to attend Coldplay’s concerts on Tuesday and Saturday, expressed her dismay upon hearing about the negative experiences some individuals had at Rogers Stadium. While striving to maintain a positive outlook, Strachan admitted to having some reservations regarding safety aspects based on recent publicity surrounding the venue.
The apprehensions stem from feedback following a previous event at the stadium featuring K-pop group Stray Kids, where attendees reported significant delays of up to two hours when leaving due to apparent inadequacies in managing the large crowd influx and outgoing transit services from Downsview Park.
Criticism also emerged on social media, with concertgoers expressing frustration over prolonged exit wait times and lengthy journeys to access transportation options post-concert. Strachan questioned the rationale behind hosting Coldplay shows at Rogers Stadium, citing the absence of nearby accommodations and dining establishments, necessitating a return downtown post-event.
Rebecca Lukowski, who attended the inaugural concert, echoed similar sentiments regarding the venue’s accessibility shortcomings. She highlighted the absence of shuttle services to designated accessible parking areas, coupled with a lack of clear signage, resulting in confusion and extended searches for parking facilities.
Mel Farenzena, who traveled seven hours with her daughters to attend the Stray Kids concert, recounted enduring extended lines at water stations, ultimately resorting to purchasing water at a significant cost due to time constraints. Acknowledging these challenges, Kevin Kennedy from Kennedy Crowd Safety Solutions attributed initial operational difficulties at the new venue to the unfamiliarity of both patrons and staff with the facility.
Live Nation Canada responded to the feedback from the Stray Kids event, assuring ongoing adjustments to enhance the concert experience and address community concerns. The organization acknowledged complaints about seat movement in the upper grandstands, attributing it to the venue’s structural design compliance with international safety standards.
City officials, in collaboration with Rogers Stadium management, are implementing measures to optimize traffic flow and enhance visitor guidance during events. Road restrictions and enhanced signage are being enforced to facilitate pedestrian and vehicular movement around the venue on concert days.
Local councillor James Pasternak expressed optimism following discussions with stakeholders to address identified issues, emphasizing the collective commitment to ensuring a safe and enjoyable concert experience for attendees. He anticipates improvements ahead of the upcoming Coldplay concerts, particularly in providing easier access to essential amenities like water, especially during warm summer evenings.