NFDC grants alcohol licence to Harry's Meadow Campsite despite objections from Hale Parish Council

A CAMPSITE in Hale has been granted a licence to serve alcohol despite objections by locals worried about drinkers relieving themselves around the village.

New Forest District Council’s licensing sub-committee granted a premises licence to Harry’s Meadow Campsite at Hale Park despite opposition from the parish council.

Members heard the main concern for objectors were an increased public nuisance, including urination on private land, as well as increases in crime, noise, unruly behaviour and property damage.

Councillors were told in a report: “Whilst the complaints from objectors about the campsite were largely unsubstantiated and circumstantial, the problems to which the objectors referred all appeared to occur in August, the only month in which the campsite operated.”

The campsite has previously relied on temporary event notices to sell alcohol to campers. It was also noted that campers can bring their own alcohol onto the site “regardless of any licence”.

A representative for the objectors conceded there was “no proven link” between the allegations and campsite users.

They also noted the campsite operates during a time of increased tourism and the school holidays and therefore any problems “may not necessarily relate to the campsite”.

The licence was granted on condition the sale of alcohol is for consumption on the premises only between 5pm and 10pm.

The decision notice stated: “The sub-committee was mindful that there was a presumption in favour of granting an application unless there was evidence which undermined the promotion of the licensing objectives.

“Due to insufficient evidence, the sub-committee was not persuaded by the objectors’ submissions that the sale of alcohol on the site would lead to public nuisance or crime and disorder.

“Overall, the sub-committee therefore felt that granting the application would not adversely affect the promotion of the licensing objectives.”