Motherwell Strathclyde Park previously hosted the major Scottish music festival, T in the Park, until 1996, when it was moved to a disused airfield in Balado, Kinross-shire. It has also hosted other music festivals such as Retrofest. Modern authors Des McAnulty and Mark Wilson have written novels of critical acclaim which are based in the town (LIFE IS LOCAL, McAnulty) and neighbouring town Bellshill (BOBBY'S BOY, Wilson). Motherwell is the headquarters for both North Lanarkshire Council, which is one of Scotland's most populous local authority areas, and of Police Scotland "Q" division. These organisations cover an overall population of 327,000 people
Black Stump Music and Arts Festival it is the venue used for headline and international acts. Fools Theatre (formerly Off Broadway) - interaction and comedy venue. Sacred Space - Alternative worship. The Village - food and service venues and addition performance space. The Supper Club - small stage for music with cafe style tables and food. Metro - primary Rock venue Black Stump was held annually since 1985 with the exception of four years: 1987, 1995, 2000 and 2010. For most of its existence Black Stump has been held at Cataract Scout Park, Appin NSW, Australia and before that at Cattai. The first festival was held