Bearsted Music on the Green cancelled over safety fears

A Kent music festival which was set to attract about 2,000 people in July has been cancelled because of health and safety concerns.

Bearsted Parish Council cancelled the Music on the Green event after some residents complained about traffic congestion and anti-social behaviour.

It had been told by Maidstone Borough Council a number of requirements had to be met if the event was to go ahead.

The parish council said there was not enough time to address the issues.

'Regretful' decision

The event showcasing local bands has taken place for the last 12 years on Bearsted Green, with the numbers attending increasing each year.

The parish council said it referred the event organisation to Maidstone Borough Council's Safety Advisory Group for the first time this year as a result of the increasing attendance numbers and following complaints from a small number of residents and a representation from the chairman of the Bearsted and Thurnham Society.

In a statement, it said it had "regretfully" made the decision that it would not be able to dedicate the additional time, money and effort to satisfy the requirements of the borough council in time for the festival to go ahead as planned on 8 July.

It said while its decision would disappoint many people, it hoped to hold the festival again from next year with the appropriate requirements in place.