Group decides against airport festival appeal

The statement, released this week, said: “Most of these residents have stressed they raise no objection to holding a music festival in principle, but believe organisers should have chosen a more suitable venue.

“As it stands, there will be no formal appeal against the licensing committee’s decision within the 21-day framework.”

The statement is on behalf of organisations Shoreham Beach Residents’ Association, Lancing Manor Residents’ Network and Lancing College and residents living in the Marine (Shoreham Beach), Lancing Manor, Mash Barn and Widewater wards.

The statement also said the action group would continue to monitor the situation closely and review other options after the first festival had taken place.

In January, Adur District Council authorised the provision of alcohol, late-night refreshment and entertainment at its licensing committee meeting.

The council had also imposed 92 conditions on the organiser, SJM Concerts.

The action group said it would like the council to review its licensing committee procedures as a matter of urgency and identify the need for more robust, open and effective community engagement.

Concerns raised by Shoreham and Lancing residents include the risk of noise, traffic and anti-social behaviour.

Tickets to the Wild Life weekend in June sold out last week.

Festival director Rob Ballantine said he was confident plans would run smoothly and people would not be let down.

The action group said it would like the organisers to remain transparent in its dealings.

“We would urge the organisers, SJM, to now fulfil their promise to consult effectively and transparently with all sectors of the community prior to the June event,” the group stated.