Tattoo Convention Relocates Amidst Artist Licensing Dispute

Organisers of a tattoo convention have stated that a local council’s decision to impose an £80 fee for a temporary licence on each artist has compelled them to relocate the event from the town. The Stockport Tattoo Convention is now scheduled to be held in Wythenshawe, a neighbouring area, next August. This change follows Stockport Council’s requirement that 50 guest artists obtain permits issued by the local authority. Mike Gribben, the event organiser, expressed that he was “gutted” by the necessity of relocating the convention, which attracts thousands of attendees, from his hometown, attributing the move to the local authority’s position. Stockport Council commented that it is currently reviewing its policy “so things run smoothly in the future.” It was noted that the organisers did not notify Stockport Council prior to the most recent convention, which took place at Edgeley Park in 2023. Although tattoo artists are required to possess a licence from their respective local authority, these licences are frequently utilized for temporary engagements in other locations, such as at conventions. Mr. Gribben stated that the organizers for the upcoming year’s event had already confirmed that all participating artists were licensed and insured before extending invitations. He further commented, “We’re not doing it for the money,” adding, “It’s about bringing artists together to show that this industry is brilliant.” According to Mr. Gribben, Stockport Council’s mandate for a local licence would compel artists traveling from distant areas, such as Scotland, to pay £80 for merely one or two days of employment. The convention for the following year is scheduled to be held at Wythenshawe Forum. The organizers asserted that this relocation had resulted in a financial loss of £2,000 for them. Stockport Council indicated that its licensing policy is under review because it “doesn’t reflect the changing nature of the industry.” However, the local authority, which is managed by the Liberal Democrats as a minority administration, highlighted that event organizers bear the responsibility for providing notice and managing registrations. Opposition Labour Councillor Joe Barratt criticized the council’s “heavy-handed” approach, stating it had caused the town to lose “thousands of pounds.” He implored the council to re-engage in discussions with the convention’s organizers in an effort to return the event to Stockport.