The New Cross Arts Centre, a rural venue near South Petherton in Somerset, has been granted its alcohol licence on the second attempt, allowing it to serve drinks during fundraising events and within its tea room.
The centre, operated by New Cross Arts Centre CIC, provides valuable employment and volunteering opportunities for adults and young people with learning disabilities. The application for the alcohol licence, submitted to Somerset Council, aims to enhance fundraising efforts by offering alcohol sales at carefully planned, small-scale events such as tapas evenings with wine or afternoon teas featuring sparkling drinks.
Originally scheduled for consideration in late November 2025, the licensing sub-committee meeting was unexpectedly cancelled due to the absence of a councillor. However, the committee later convened and fully approved the licence on January 6, 2026, following a virtual hearing.
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Chris Laurie, a director of the CIC, emphasised the organisation’s commitment to integrating harmoniously into the local community by collaborating closely with residents’ associations. He stated the events would be tailored to respect the rural setting and avoid disturbances.
Despite the approval, Kingsbury Episcopi Parish Council raised concerns in October 2025 about potential noise, antisocial behaviour, and parking issues, highlighting the venue’s quiet rural location and limited parking capacity. Parish chairman David Hall noted residents’ objections and stressed the need to consider each application carefully.
Addressing these worries, Councillor Marcus Barr of Reform UK argued that functions would proceed regardless of the licence status, meaning traffic and noise levels would remain unchanged.
Following a confidential discussion and agreement on conditions with Avon & Somerset Constabulary, the sub-committee awarded the licence, enabling the arts centre to enhance its fundraising activities while aiming to maintain community harmony.