Harry’s Meadow based at Hale Park near Fordingbridge granted permission by New Forest District Council to extend alcohol licence

A FAMILY-run campsite has been granted an extension of its licence to serve alcohol to holidaymakers for an extra month of the year.

Harry’s Meadow, based at Hale Park near Fordingbridge, was granted permission by New Forest District Council in 2022 to sell alcohol on-site during August.

The council’s licensing sub-committee recently discussed the application by Vivien Sheriff to extend the licence in order for alcohol to also be sold between 5pm and 10pm from 1st July until 31st August.

The meeting heard since the licence had been issued there had been no complaints to NFDC. Alcohol is sold from a converted horsebox for those camping at the site, and there is a partially covered area where campers can sit and drink as well as purchase items from mobile food vans.

Mr Sheriff told the hearing: “A licensed controlled bar prevents excessive personal alcohol consumption, which could otherwise lead to unruly behaviour. Trained staff enforce ID checks to ensure alcohol is managed properly, with clear safety measures in place.

“A controlled bar is far safer than unregulated drinking, where alcohol could be obtained by minors.”

Four objections were received based on concerns over noise and potential disorder, increased traffic, and the impact on the environment.

Hale Parish Council also objected to the proposal and said it felt the campsite’s intention to run the bar only for campers was not enforceable.

It also was concerned original planning conditions, which state a 10.30pm noise curfew, no music and and no outside lighting, could be infringed if the licence was extended.

However, as none of the objectors attended the hearing in person, Cllr Steve Clarke, chairman of the committee, ruled the licence should be granted.