Alcohol licence agreed for Luton festival plan
A licence for the sale of alcohol has been approved for three days of festival-style entertainment at Stockwood Park in Luton, organised by the borough council.
The local authority’s licensing panel has agreed an application submitted by LBC’s head of culture and creativity Corey Albone and requesting the grant of a premises licence.
An annual three days of entertainment are planned for Stockwood Park, off Farley Hill, according to a report to the panel.
The Licensing Act 2003 aims to provide a clear and transparent framework for making decisions about applications by individuals or businesses wishing to sell or supply alcohol, or to provide certain types of regulated entertainment and late-night refreshment, said the report.
Three borough councillors sit on the panel and consider each application against the four licensing objectives, which are the prevention of crime and disorder, preventing public nuisance, the protection of children from harm, and public safety.
Having successfully hosted BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend festival at the same venue, the council aims to stage an eventcovering no more than a single weekend or three days per calendar year, on a Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from 11am to 11pm.
Functions and activities could involve live or recorded music, films and dance performances, with the selling of alcohol on the premises, explained the panel report.
“The premises is described by the applicant as an area of green space and hardstanding. The event site would be a separate fenced area located within the main park.
“The event management plan, detailed site plans and risk assessments will show how the licensing objectives will be fully addressed for the event to the satisfaction of the licensing authority.
“The number of people in the event area will be monitored at all times, while no amplified music will be played after 10.30pm and no over 18 films or adult entertainment permitted.
“Robust plans, including contingency and counter terrorism planning, will be provided as part of the event management operations. Glass, illegal and hazardous substances, fireworks and flares won’t be permitted.”
Stockwood Park hosted BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend in May 2024, attracting more than 100,000 people to the event.