Gallagher Hill Fenced Off Before Oasis Heaton Park Shows: “Not a Wonderwall, Just a Wooden Fence”

Fans are upset as Gallagher Hill is closed off ahead of Oasis' upcoming Heaton Park concerts, blocking the iconic viewing spot.

What’s Happening at Gallagher Hill?

Oasis fans gather outside Heaton Park eager for the reunion gigs.

If you’ve been following the buzz around Oasis’s reunion shows at Heaton Park, you probably heard about the legendary “Gallagher Hill” — the spot where fans without tickets gathered to catch a glimpse of the live shows on big screens. But here’s the twist: ahead of the next concerts on July 16, 19, and 20, this beloved hill has been fenced off, and not everyone’s thrilled.

Last weekend, hundreds of ticketless fans flocked to Gallagher Hill to soak in the atmosphere and watch the band's massive homecoming gigs on huge screens. It became somewhat of a pilgrimage spot, even earning five-star reviews on Google Maps, with fans describing it as “biblical.”

Unfortunately, that experience won’t be available anymore, as Manchester City Council has put up fences to prevent people from gathering there. The official reason? To protect livestock and newly planted trees in the area.

Councillor John Hacking chimed in, suggesting that those without tickets should head to the city center for “a real party atmosphere.” He also expressed regret, mentioning, “The steps being taken ahead of the next concert mean the distant view of the large screens behind the event stage will no longer be there.”

The Fan Reaction: Disappointment and Defiance

The fencing off of Gallagher Hill sparked quite the uproar on social media. Fans took to Twitter and other platforms to express their dismay, calling the move “shortsighted” and “killjoy.” Some fans pleaded with Liam and Noel Gallagher to intervene and “sort it out.”

“It’s not a wonderwall, it’s a wooden fence.”
— Twitter user @Razz70

One especially poignant tweet read:

Oasis Gallagher hill
Is out of bounds.
I can't see why anyone involved would do it — it'll just push everyone onto the streets @oasis @MENnewsdesk seems shortsighted it was a great atmosphere. If you can get the fence up so quickly what’s the excuse on the region's potholes?
— Jeff (@jeffjeffIles)

Others shared footage from the last weekend when fans gathered on the hill, mourning the loss with messages like “RIP Gallagher Hill :(” and sharing photos — a testament to how much the spot meant to the community.

Alternative Viewing Spots and Security Measures

Not everyone gave up on watching the spectacle. Some resourceful fans headed to The Ostrich pub, just across the street from Heaton Park, where they could listen to the gig and enjoy the vibe.

However, the excitement around the concerts has led to some security challenges. Greater Manchester Police reported that six people were arrested for trying to sneak in using fake accreditation. Others attempted to breach the perimeter fence, leading to heightened security concerns.

Adding to the tense atmosphere, a 17-year-old boy appeared in court last month after allegedly planning an attack at the first Oasis reunion show. Authorities revealed that the teen expressed support for a notorious killer, a chilling reminder of the need for tight security at large events.

The Reunion Tour Kicks Off in Style

Despite these hurdles, Oasis’s reunion tour has been a massive hit. Their opening show in Cardiff received rave reviews, praising the band’s blend of ’90s nostalgia with fresh energy.

“After a '90s heyday and an often maligned post-millennium era, this is Oasis redesigned for the 21st Century. Playing before a pop-art-meets-psychedelia visual spectacular that never distracts but will look sick on a phone, they seem the quintessential stadium band playing the greatest hits of greatest hits.”

This glowing review perfectly captures the spirit of the reunion — a band reconnecting with fans old and new, delivering classic anthems with a modern twist.

Final Thoughts

Gallagher Hill wasn’t just a spot on a map; it became a symbol of community and shared joy for Oasis fans. While the fence may have shut down this impromptu viewing area, the spirit of the concerts lives on in the fans’ hearts and the city’s vibrant celebrations.

What do you think—should Gallagher Hill be reopened for future shows, or is it time to find new ways to share the Oasis experience? Let us know your thoughts!

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why was Gallagher Hill fenced off before the Oasis shows?
  Manchester City Council fenced it off to protect livestock and newly planted trees and to discourage large crowds from gathering without tickets.
• Can fans still watch the concerts without tickets at Heaton Park?
  Not from Gallagher Hill anymore, but some fans have found alternative spots like nearby pubs to enjoy the atmosphere.
• Were there any security issues during the Oasis Heaton Park concerts?
  Yes, several people were arrested for trying to enter with fake passes, and some attempted to breach the perimeter fence.
• What was the fan reaction to the fencing off of Gallagher Hill?
  Many fans expressed disappointment and frustration on social media, calling the decision shortsighted and asking the Gallagher brothers to intervene.
• How was the Oasis reunion tour received by critics?
  The tour has been highly praised, with the opening Cardiff show receiving a five-star review for its blend of nostalgia and fresh energy.

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