Plan for annual festival-style event at Luton's Stockwood Park in the pipeline

Functions and activities could involve live or recorded music, films and dance performances, according to an application by the local authority to its licensing panel.

The licensing application was submitted on July 10 andwould cover no more than a single weekend or three days per calendar year, on a Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from 11am to 11pm, said a report to the panel.

“The application was received from LBC’s head of culture and creativity, Corey Albone, for the grant of a premises licence for Stockwood Park off Farley Hill.

“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.”

This application covers live music, recorded music, performances of dance or anything of a similar description, with the selling of alcohol on the premises, explained the report.

“No non-standard timings, adult entertainment or activities have been applied for that may give rise to concern in respect of children.

“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.”

Resident Atif Rasheed warned: “I’m deeply concerned entertainment events where alcohol is being served and consumed will likely culminate in higher probabilities of crime and disorder within a residential area.

“There’s a likelihood that certain individuals attending, possibly emboldened by alcohol, may decide to indulge in acts of disorder around the residential area. I understand the licensing request has been made to boost economic activity in Luton, and create an image of safety and quality entertainment.

“But some individuals may use these events as a chance to perpetrate crimes against residents in the knowledge that security and police services may be distracted with managing the activities. I consider the residential and family area of Stockwood Park isn’t a suitable venue for such entertainment events, which may expose households to acts of crime and disorder.”

The application also stated: “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.

“Where possible, deliveries to or collections from the site will happen at a reasonable time to have minimal impact on local residents. Event attendees will be instructed to leave quietly to avoid disturbing nearby residents.”

The application is due to be considered by LBC’s licensing panel on Thursday (September 3).

Stockwood Park hosted BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend in May 2024, which attracted more than 100,000 people. Among the headline acts were Coldplay and RAYE, with local talent including Myles Smith also featuring.