Noise Concerns Threaten Cornwall Festival Extension

Plans to prolong a single-day festival in Cornwall are in jeopardy due to objections concerning noise. Quick Panda Productions Ltd has submitted an application for a modification of its premises licence to extend its Live at Scorrier House event, located near Redruth, by two additional days during the August bank holiday in 2025. Cornwall Council’s environment protection officer (EPO) stated that an increase in festivals at this specific location would be “likely to cause a significant noise disturbance” to residents nearby. Ben Hall, one of the organisers, affirmed that the festival management was “conscious” of fostering positive relationships to ensure “events are delivered in a responsible and professional manner”. Quick Panda Productions Ltd also organises the Great Estate Festival at the identical site, an event with a 12,000 capacity, scheduled to run from 30 May to 1 June in 2025. The EPO noted that the application did not present any evidence demonstrating its capacity to “prevent a public nuisance”. In a letter sent to the EPO, Mr Hall outlined the event’s intentions to feature a silent disco on one of the evenings, a main headline act on another, and a “concert-style evening” on the third. He confirmed that live musical performances would conclude at 23:00 GMT each night. He further added, “As you know, we are very conscious of keeping good relations with the locals, we have a very good track record of complying with the licensing objectives and have had very positive support from police licensing.” The EPO cautioned about a “substantial amount of residential properties” situated close to the venue following recent housing developments. The EPO remarked, “This year we received noise complaints some distance away, possibly due to wind direction.” The EPO concluded by stating, “As the application currently stands we would have to object unless there is some reduction in the sound levels, hours and a more concrete offering in the application, i.e. silent disco written down as the only activity on the Friday.” A final decision regarding the event is expected from a Cornwall Council licensing committee on 18 December.