Carl Cox named as proposed headliner for Portrush’s North Fest 200

Plans for two nights of outdoor music at East Strand in Portrush have been backed in principle by a council sub-committee, with organisers expecting around 14,000 people across both nights.

The proposed event, called North Fest 200, would take place at East Strand car park during North West 200 race week in May 2027. The use of the site still requires approval from the full council.

My Causeway Coast and Glens exclusively revealed today that British DJ Carl Cox is the proposed headline act. His appearance has yet to be confirmed.

Cox, known for his house and techno sets, is a motorcycle racing fan and a regular visitor to the North West 200. He is also a headline sponsor of one of the race’s leading competitors.

Minutes from a closed meeting of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s land and property sub-committee name Aghadowey-based Arbutus Catering as the firm behind the proposal.

Arbutus Catering is working with an events promoter and the North West 200’s event safety consultant. Unit 7 would provide staging, with Festival Productions handling sound.

An independent valuation would determine the fee for using the car park. The applicant would be expected to pay for the valuation and the use of the site, as well as sign a temporary licence agreement.

The car park would be needed for several days to set up and dismantle the event, reducing public parking at East Strand during race week. Traffic management, public access to the beach and access to facilities used by lifeguards would also need to be considered.

The sub-committee’s decision comes weeks after councillors were told that a separate proposal for a concert at East Strand in June 2027 had been withdrawn.