What's Happening?
The Boardmasters Festival has proposed increasing its noise limits, raising concerns among local hotel owners, councillors, and residents. The application seeks to increase sound limits before 23:00 from 60 to 65 decibels and from 50 to 55 decibels between
23:00 and 01:00 from Thursday to Sunday. Organizers also requested permission to operate until 04:00. Will Ashworth, founder of Watergate Bay Hotel and SeaSpace, expressed concerns that the increased noise levels would significantly impact local businesses, campsites, and residents. Newquay Town Council and Cornwall councillors have also raised objections, citing potential noise nuisances. Festival organizers clarified that the proposed limit is an upper band and not a target, assuring that there would be no intentional increase in noise to cause disturbance. A Cornwall Council licensing sub-committee is set to consider the application.
Why It's Important?
The proposed changes to noise levels at the Boardmasters Festival could have significant implications for local businesses and residents. Increased noise levels may disrupt the operations of nearby hotels and campsites, potentially affecting tourism and local economies. Residents have already reported significant public nuisances from current noise levels, and further increases could exacerbate these issues. The festival's impact on the community highlights the ongoing tension between large-scale events and local stakeholders, emphasizing the need for balanced solutions that consider both economic benefits and community well-being.
What's Next?
The Cornwall Council licensing sub-committee will review the application, and their decision will determine whether the proposed noise level changes will be implemented. If approved, festival organizers may need to engage with local stakeholders to address concerns and mitigate potential disturbances. The outcome could set a precedent for how similar events manage noise levels in the future, influencing festival planning and community relations.
