Licensing Act Sub Committee - 4 March 2026

The meeting opened with Councillor Dennis moving, and Councillor Parsons seconding, a resolution to elect Councillor Moorcroft as Chairman for the session. No councillors declared any interest in the matters to be considered.

The Sub‑Committee then examined the report on the application for a premises licence for the Boardmasters Festival at Trebelsue Farm, Newquay (TR8 4AN). The Licensing Officer (AG) outlined the applicant’s submission, which highlighted extensive consultation with residents and relevant authorities, proposed conditions aligned with the statutory guidance under the Licensing Act 2003, and mitigation measures for noise. The applicant’s representative also explained the rationale for a modest increase in the permitted decibel level, citing stage layout, audience experience, artist feedback, and the need to diversify the festival’s audience.

During the question‑and‑answer session, committee members sought clarification on several points: the status of proposed environmental‑protection conditions, attendance figures for the residents’ meeting (no apologies were received), and the justification for the decibel increase. The applicant responded that the increase would unify sound management across the seven performance stages and address low return rates by improving the overall event experience. A representative from Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that noise is not a police concern and noted that Boardmasters’ existing CCTV provisions were satisfactory. Representatives from “Other Persons” expressed concern about the potential impact of higher noise levels on the local community and asked for further detail on the proposed increase.

After considering the applicant’s evidence, the police input, and the concerns raised by other representatives, the Sub‑Committee concluded that there was no substantive reason to with the licence. The committee resolved to grant the premises licence for the Boardmasters Festival, subject to the conditions outlined in the report, including the approved noise‑level increase and the continued provision of CCTV. The decision was recorded as the final outcome of the meeting.