Chaos at Essex Duran Duran concert as ticket holders stuck in queues
VIP ticket holders, who paid hundreds of pounds for premium access, were still queuing to enter the venue at 2.30pm despite gates being scheduled to open at 2pm. The delays created significant bottlenecks at security checkpoints and ticket verification points, causing knock-on effects for general admission ticket holders due to enter at 3pm.
One frustrated VIP ticket holder described the situation as "an utter shambles," telling reporters: "We bought these tickets to beat the chaos and now we're in the middle of this."
The entry problems come just 24 hours after traffic gridlock around the racecourse left some Justin Timberlake fans missing the start of Friday night's concert. The traffic chaos prompted Essex Police to implement emergency measures including rolling roadblocks on the A131.
The admission delays highlight ongoing logistical challenges at the venue, which is hosting back-to-back major concerts as part of the Chelmsford City Live series. Tonight's event features support from Nile Rodgers and Chic alongside headliners Duran Duran.
Long queues of ticket holders were seen snaking around the racecourse perimeter as security staff struggled to process the volume of people arriving for the popular 1980s band's performance.
The delays particularly affected those who had paid premium prices for VIP packages, which typically promise expedited entry and exclusive facilities. Many expressed frustration at being caught up in the same queues as general admission ticket holders.
Event organisers have not yet responded to requests for comment about the admission problems or what measures are being taken to prevent similar issues at future events.
The problems cap a difficult weekend for the venue, which has faced criticism over its handling of large-scale events. Friday's Justin Timberlake concert saw some fans reporting waits of several hours to exit the car parks, with police forced to intervene to manage traffic flow.
Essex Police confirmed they will continue to maintain their presence around the racecourse this weekend to support traffic management and public safety operations.
The venue regularly hosts major music events as part of its summer concert series, attracting thousands of visitors to the Essex location.
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