U2 'Disappointed' After Dublin Gigs Spark Street Protests

U2 have been left disappointed after their homecoming shows at Dublin's Croke Park sparked street protests.

The band played to almost a quarter of a million people at the iconic stadium over the weekend.

But many residents around the stadium took to the street this morning to complain about the around-the-clock dismantling of the band's 360 degree stage set.

The protesters, who said their objective was to embarrass the city's council – who permitted the overnight removal – caused U2's 50-truck entourage to miss their scheduled morning ferry today (July 28).

The tour's production director, Jake Berry, told the Associated Press that U2's members had expressed “pure disappointment” over the protests.

“It's just really put a damp squib (sponge) on something that was a fantastic experience and fantastic show,” Berry said.

Dozens of protesters took part in the demonstrations, which were first outlined last week.

David Purdue, of the Croke Park Area Residents' Committee, said the continuous 44-hour period in which the stage was dismantled caused “damage” to the surrounding area.

The delays incurred by the street protests have cast doubt over U2's forthcoming concert in Sweden this Friday.

As Gigwise reported yesterday, U2's three-night residency in Dublin is expected to provide a 50 million euro boost to the city's economy.

U2 live at Croke Park