Organizers of a Harry Potter-themed event at Cannock Chase Forest in Staffordshire have been denied a license to sell alcohol. Forestry England had sought permission to offer mulled wine and Irish cream hot chocolate along an illuminations trail planned to run from October.
The Cannock Chase District Council's licensing sub-committee rejected the bid after receiving more than 75 objections from local residents. A Reform UK councilor also made a dismissive comment about the proposed drinks.
John Parkes, a council member, questioned the appeal of the non-alcoholic Butterbeer, a popular branded drink associated with the Harry Potter franchise, describing it as "horrendous" and stating that "normal men" would not drink such beverages.
Forestry England's representative, Jon Payne, had argued that the event would be family-oriented with minimal alcohol consumption served from limited outlets. He stated that alcohol would not be available throughout the site and that there would be no adverse impact on neighbors.
However, residents voiced concerns about the potential risks associated with serving alcohol at the event, particularly citing the dark and dense nature of the forest at night. One objector questioned the necessity of alcohol at family events and raised concerns about impaired driving. Residents also cited potential issues with noise, parking, and anti-social behavior from previous events.
Concerns were also raised about the proposed timings for alcohol sales and music, from 15:30 to 22:30, with some residents stating they expected peace and quiet during these evening hours. They also worried about lights shining into their homes and vehicle noise.
Emily Sewell, from event producers Culture Creative Limited, mentioned that background music would be used in specific areas and noted that, in their experience, approximately one in five visitors consume alcohol at such events.
The committee chair, Maureen Freeman, ultimately stated that the panel was "not minded to grant the licence as requested."