WESTIVAL returns next month with two new stages included in its licence.
Those behind the festival were complimented for their organisation and engagement with authorities during discussions of a new licence application to Pembrokeshire County Council.
The licensing committee heard from Joe Worley, the event’s organiser, as well as potential proposals to add two new stages and a ‘sunset stage’ in another neighbouring field at a meeting conducted on Monday, June 20.
Mr Worley claimed that the guests will benefit from the different areas and will improve the foot traffic around the site at Shipping Farm, near Manorbier.
The committee also heard that a 3am licence for the event had been accepted in 2020, however, the four-day festival was cancelled due to Covid-19. The previous year’s event ended at 1am.
Music is expected to stop at midnight on Thursday and Sunday.
Councillor Mark Carter raised concerns about a potential increase in complaints after 1am, calling the extension to the time limits “fairly radical” and the committee heard there had only been five complaints after the 2019 event, three of which were repeats of after 2018.
Councillor Mark Carter expressed concerns about an increase in complaints after 1 a.m, calling the time limit extension “fairly radical.”
The committee also heard that just five complaints had been filed following the 2019 event, three of which were repetitions from the previous year.
The application states: “There will be a combination of live bands and dj’s playing across four stages across the course of the weekend. To help generate as much revenue for the local area as possible, local food vendors will be utilised and the bar will feature local ales and beers.”
Mr Worley added that a specialist noise management company was being hired to monitor levels and that a helpline number will be available during the festival with complaints investigated and alterations made if necessary.
He stated that there would be a drop in volume at 11pm and 1am “to reduce the likelihood of getting any noise complaints.”
