Vineyard able to host events despite objections

A vineyard has won the right to hold events from a council despite its neighbours complaining that gatherings had been disruptive.

South Norfolk Council approved a retrospective application from Chet Valley Vineyard in Bergh Apton, Norfolk, which would allow for functions and the outdoor use of the winery site.

The site is approved to have 24 events a year, no more than two per month, with visitor numbers capped at 70 at any one time.

At a planning meeting last week, John Hemmant, the vineyard's founder, said: "Visitor activity and occasional events help support the long-term viability of a small rural business like this."

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, people living near the winery said events had been taking place without permission for many years – and that the rural community, near Norwich, had been impacted.

"We have lived here for 25 years and have noticed a significant increase in traffic when an event is being held," said one written objection.

Another added: "These events already mostly take place during the congested summer months.

"This is going to have a significant detrimental effect on the amenities of the adjoining residents."

Bergh Apton Parish Council also objected to the application, warning of a "constant escalation in numbers and events".

Hemmant said visitor numbers would be capped, outdoor music banned, and a noise management plan put in place.

Norfolk County Council Highways raised no objection provided guest numbers remained capped, while environmental health officers withdrew earlier concerns after mitigation measures were agreed.

Conditions for approval included a ban on outdoor music, acoustic fencing near the closest neighbouring property, a noise monitoring device and a formal noise management plan.

Do you have a story suggestion for Norfolk? Contact us below.

Follow Norfolk news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.