Agenda and minutes

Councillor Douglas was elected as Chair of the Licensing Sub-Committee.

There were no apologies for absence.

There were no declarations of interest.

To determine the application for a new premises licence on land within the grounds and owned by Belvoir Castle, known as Knipton pastures & Frog Hollow, Belvoir Castle grounds, Belvoir NG32 1PE for the Forbidden Forest Festival in accordance with the promotion of the Licensing Objectives.

Prior to the introduction of the report, it was determined that all parties would be given a maximum of 10 minutes to speak.

The Licensing and Compliance Officer outlined the application, which was for a permanent license for a four-day camping event each year. In outlining the application, the Licensing and Compliance Officer reminded the Sub-committee of the representations that had been received.

During questioning the Licensing and Compliance Officer was asked how many complaints were received during the 2022 event. In response it was explained that there were three in total and that they were of a minor nature, however it was noted that some communities were not aware that complaints had to be submitted to the Local Authority and that a lot of complaints were directed to the organisers of the festival.

Following a question regarding drug paraphernalia, it was explained that a significant quantity of drug paraphernalia was found in the village of Denton and that there were a few incidents of drug related seizures at the festival, however it was explained that is not uncommon with festivals of that size.

When asked whether the Licensing Authority would consult neighbouring Licensing Authorities regarding events that may affect their area, Members were informed that the Licensing Authority would not normally consult with other Licensing Authorities but the application was advertised in both the Melton Times and Grantham Journal.

In summarising, the Licensing and Compliance Officer stated that the event in 2022 was well run and the documentation was provided to the Licensing Authority in sufficient time. The ultimate aim is to ensure that the event is run with minimal impact upon the community.

The applicant’s legal representative, Ms Tulloch, outlined the application to Members and explained that it is the same application as the previous one with the exception that the application that is sought is permanent. Ms Tulloch explained that the applicant is seeking for Members to agree to the principle of hosting the event each year and agree that other issues are then dealt with under the management plans.

Ms Tulloch continued by stated that the Police and Environmental Health are satisfied with the application. Residents have been notified that the application is to be submitted. Contractors have been informed not to use Denton as an access route to the site. In addition, the sound element has been reviewed to ensure minimal disruption to neighbouring communities.

In response to a question on refreshments, it was confirmed that there will be teas, coffees and bacon butties provided during the period of 11pm to 5pm. In relation to underage alcohol consumption, it was confirmed that security check ID when patrons enter the site to ensure no-one is underage, also bars have been instructed to challenge any patron who looks 25 years of age or under to ensure they are not underage.

Following a question regarding sound management and concert closing time, Members were informed that noise consultants work alongside Environmental Health to ensure there is minimal disruption for  ...  view the full minutes text for item LSC4