EXCLUSIVE by Liz Tinsley
A controversial music festival planned for the south Shropshire countryside has been scuppered – with the district council saying no to its licence.
David Morton wanted to hold the folk festival for 2009 at Upper Mill Farm, Wentnor. It was intended to attract 2000 people.
Last Friday, South Shropshire District Council’s licensing appeals committee held a meeting in Wentnor to discuss the festival idea and whether a licence should be granted.
Opponents of the scheme spoke at length about increased traffic and noise fears.
The Journal can exclusively reveal that the committee refused the application, and issued the following statement: “The sub-committee considered the application very carefully, along with representations made by the applicant, West Mercia Constabulary and other parties that had made written representations.
“Having considered all of the evidence and having regard to the council’s policy and the Section 182 Guidance, the sub-committee’s decision was to refuse the application on the grounds of public safety and public nuisance.”
The committee felt that, even after changes to a traffic plan, the proposed event site still presented an ‘unacceptable’ level of risk to both those attending the event and passing traffic.
Because of the location, the committee felt it was impossible to reduce the impact of public nuisance to an acceptable level for those living within the vicinity, even with conditions.
Alan Parker, a Wentnor resident, said: “I have only just learned unofficially of the decision but there is still the possibility of appeal.
“The committee spent two hours considering representations, including the police who were critical of the proposals.
“The result is plain common sense. Wentnor is not suitable for any event aimed at 2000 people, especially if this involves camping.”
Mr Parker said the committee had listened to the needs of the residents and visitors who appreciate the unspoilt rural countryside of Wentnor and the surrounding area.
