A village playing field could soon see alcohol served across much of its grounds, as a licensing decision looms amid concerns over safety, noise and crime.
An application has been submitted for a new premises licence covering the clubhouse and wider playing field used by Morchard Bishop Playing Field Association. The bid would allow the sale of alcohol and the staging of live and recorded music at the site.
A hearing to determine the application is due to take place on Thursday, April 16, after objections were raised by local residents.
The proposed licence would permit the sale of alcohol for consumption on site throughout the week, with later hours extending to 00:30 on Fridays and Saturdays. Live and recorded music has also been applied for, both indoors and outdoors, during similar hours.
According to the application, the licence would cover most of the playing field estate, including the clubhouse and bowls building, but exclude the children’s play area and tennis court. The aim is to allow drinks to be served at community events and consumed outdoors, removing the need for off-site sales.
The site, located at the end of a cul-de-sac and surrounded by rural land, currently operates as a community recreation ground open to the public. The clubhouse itself includes a bar area and skittle alley, with additional outdoor seating nearby.
No objections were submitted by responsible authorities such as police or environmental health. However, six representations opposing the application were received from members of the public.
Concerns raised include the potential for increased crime and disorder if the site moves away from a members-only model, risks to children due to the proximity of a play area, and the possibility of greater public nuisance if alcohol consumption is permitted across the wider grounds.
Other issues highlighted by residents, including road safety and parking pressures, were deemed not directly relevant to licensing objectives, as they fall outside the control of the applicant.
Licensing officers noted that the majority of the proposed entertainment hours would not require a licence under current legislation, with only late-night periods falling within licensable activity.
The council’s licensing sub-committee will now assess the application against the four key objectives: preventing crime and disorder, ensuring public safety, preventing public nuisance, and protecting children from harm.
A decision will be made following consideration of written and oral representations at the hearing.
