Decision details

In respect of the Temporary Event Notice received for Wincanton Sports Centre, West Hill, Wincanton, BA9 9SP, under the Licensing Act 2003, the Licensing Sub-Committee has determined that the events on 12^TH August to 13^th August 2023 should proceed in accordance with the temporary event notices.

A written objection notice had been received from the Avon and Somerset Police objecting to the application on the grounds of crime and disorder, public safety and protection of children from harm. Their main concern being the crime and disorder experienced at two previous events organised by the same applicant.

They were also concerned that the applicant had not provided enough detailed information on how the event would be managed and that an insufficient risk assessment had been undertaken. Following assurances from the applicant, the Police remained concerned that there was insufficient security available and that in the event of a disturbance, they would be unable to manage public disorder, comprising the safety of visitors to the event. They concluded by stating that the Police could only judge such an event based upon the information before them, and this was completely insufficient and they could not be convinced that the event would be run safely and could not support it in its current form.

The applicant assured members of the Sub-Committee that measures had been put in place to alleviate the concerns expressed by the Police. They had increased the security staff and would not allow anyone into the event who were known to have caused anti-social behaviour at previous events.

The Sub-Committee noted the significant objections raised by the Police in respect of the proposed security arrangements and their concerns that a proper risk assessment had not been completed.

The Sub-Committee listened to the assurances of the applicant of the additional measures they had put in place such as additional security staff, body camera’s and I.D checks.  They were keen for the event to proceed and supported events of this nature. They took into account the incidents that had occurred at the previous events and were satisfied that the applicant had put measures in place to promote the licensing objectives.

The Sub-Committee approved the applications for the temporary event notice.