Concerns have been raised over the safety of wildlife as well as noise and traffic after an application to host events and serve alcohol at a country park was put forward. 

Residents have written in with their concerns over the application for a new licence at River Hamble Country Park. 

The proposals, put forward by Hampshire County Council, are for events such as concerts, dances, films, country shows and fun days to be hosted at the park. 

As part of a licencing application, the county council has requested permission for plays, films, recorded music, performance of dance, indoor sporting events, live music and the supply of alcohol to be permitted between 8am and 11.59pm. 

But ahead of a meeting next week to discuss, 14 residents have written to Eastleigh Borough Council objecting to the new licence. 

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Among them is Sandra Gillett, who said the application is "totally against the park's mission statement".

She added: "It will bring more noise, litter, unsociable behaviour and damage wildlife.

"It will open up the complete park for the opening times, not just a small area, leading to the likelihood of increased drug use in area, smoking as a fire hazard and private parties.

"Policing will need to be improved; has this been considered and who is going to cover the cost?"

Another resident, Kate Garcia, said the park should "remain focused on the countryside aspects of the park and not undermine these by commercialism".

She said: "I would like to engage with the country park as to what they intend to achieve (presumably generating more money from hosting events) but weigh this against the natural environment, litter, noise pollution, traffic, disruption to wildlife, and the wellbeing and safety and security of locals."

Daily Echo: River Hamble Country ParkRiver Hamble Country Park (Image: Sharon Nessling)

Others however have spoken in support, with Sarah Guy writing: "I think this is a very good idea and a great way for the park to generate revenue and support themselves.

"The park is a great facility for the area; many people use it and this venture should be supported by the community.

"This would be a lovely location for events, especially for the local community."

The application states that music may be amplified for outdoor events but that stewards and security staff would be on site at all times. 

It also adds that risk assessments would be carried out for all events with sound monitoring in place and event capacity adhered to at all times.

The application is due to be considered at a licensing panel meeting on Tuesday, April 9 at 10am.