Music festival moved after Rugeley residents' uproar
A controversial music festival has failed to get off the ground after fierce opposition.
Plans to stage Glo Festival at Four Oaks Farm in Rugeley sparked concern over traffic chaos and noise levels.
Now organisers FMD Events UK Limited are moving this year’s event to Burton, much to the ‘relief’ of people living near to the proposed site – but they still hope to stage it in Rugeley in 2019.
The festival, set to take place from August 31 to September 2, will feature camping, three stages for tribute acts and local artists, a fairground and children’s area.
Director of FMD Events UK Ltd, Fran Green, said: “It is a family festival that got the community involved and it was never meant to be an adult-only event.
“We will take every precaution possible when organising the festival for next year and we are working closely with the relevant authorities.
“In the meantime, we have selected an alternative site for this year – also because a noise limit of 45 decibels has placed heavy restrictions on us.”
Nearby resident, Joan Redfern, said: “We are somewhat relieved that it has been put on hold.
"But with regards to the environment and traffic concerns, there will be the same objections next year.
“The residents of Etching Hill Road will strenuously raise the same objections with any future applications.
"The main thing is being informed of the applications because we feel we have not be informed correctly.”
FMD Events UK Ltd applied for premises and alcohol licenses, which were set to be discussed at a licensing sub-committee meeting today.
Ms Redfern added: “We feel word of mouth has been the only way residents have learned of the licence application.
“There will be traffic danger around the site because of the estimated 5,000 visitors each day.
"Fairground rides, loud music, concerts, camping, catering and car parking have no place in this special area of conservation.
“After our recent 17 days of hot sunny weather, just one cigarette could set fire to the field and risk the whole of the Chase.”
Tickets for the festival have already gone up for sale online for up to £107.32 and auditions have been held for local performers.
