A plan to stage a four-day beer festival in a York church again this year has received police backing – but complaints from neighbours.
The York branch for the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) is planning to stage the York Beer and Cider Festival at St Lawrence Church again.
It was first held at the venue on Lawrence Street last year, after the event had to move from Knavesmire due to it clashing with a new race meeting.
The festival is provisionally due to return to the church from Wednesday 18 September to Saturday 21 September. A licensing application is set to be discussed at a City of York Council hearing next Monday (15 April).
York Camra is asking for permission to serve alcohol from lunchtime till 11pm on each of the four days.
North Yorkshire Police initially raised concerns over potential crime and disorder issues caused by the festival.
But officers and York Camra representatives met, and the festival organisers have agreed to the police’s proposed conditions to the licence, including a documented staff training programme. As a result, police have withdrawn their objection.
Privacy worries
Two residents of the Ellen Wilson Almshouse retirement cottages, located next door to the church and grounds, have raised concerns however.
One writes: “The last time it was here it impacted greatly on my quality of life because of a Tannoy system amplifying the sound of someone’s voice and the loud music playing late into the night.
“Also the noise from caravans camping in our car park where the very large marquee is erected over the graves.
“No emergency vehicles would be able to get in if anything happened in any of the six almshouses that house old and vulnerable people.”
A second resident says: “The car park to the rear of the cottages is full to capacity, meaning we have no privacy.
“The noise is unbearable, especially at night when I am trying to sleep.
“This festival should not be held on the church grounds as it is not appropriate, and while it is taking place I have no quality of life.”
In their application, York Camra states: “The festival is well planned and responsibly run by an experienced management team.
“Our site team are always on hand to monitor the site to ensure it remains safe for all customers and staff.
“We do not use amplified music. Background music may be provided inside the buildings, and we ensure that the volume is kept to a reasonable level to avoid a nuisance to local residents.”
The documents for the licensing hearing on 15 April can be read here.