TWO popular festivals in Chelmsford will be bigger and better next year, it has been revealed.

The Three Foot People and Fling festivals will now be held in Hylands Park, rather than Central Park.

Chelmsford Council are expanding both with visitor numbers reaching 12,800 for Three Foot, aimed at children under fives, and 4,200 for Fling, an alternative arts event, in 2013.

Concerns have been raised over getting to the festivals as the park is further away from the city centre.

However Ray Ride, councillor responsible for culture, said a shuttle bus service is being looked at.

Tory Mr Ride said: “Both festivals have outgrown Central Park.

“What we were faced with in Central Park is it being too small and we cannot adequately provide security and meet demand for tickets which is going up and up.

“We expect numbers to be higher with the switch to Hylands and I will do everything possible to make sure anyone who wants to go can get there.”

Andy Blundell, 32, of Redmayne Drive, who attended the Fling last year fears the atmosphere may be spolied by moving to a bigger venue.

He said: “Being in a larger place might work, but I do worry it will deter people from going as it is harder to get there from the city.”