Earlier this week I attended a Licensing Hearing at Haringey Council to help residents’ set out their concerns about a planned 10 day event in Finsbury Park. Jamaica Village will take place during the Olympics from 3rd-12th August is a celebration of Jamaican culture and sporting achievement.
Although the event sounds like a lot of fun, it is much longer than the usual 2 day events in the Park, and a number of residents who live nearby have concerns. They are worried about issues such as noise, alcohol, anti-social behaviour and the loss of access to a big part of the park for weeks during the summer. So I attended the meeting to argue for some sensible restrictions on the loudness of the music and to make sure the Park is properly cleaned up afterwards. I also urged the Police and organisers to ensure the rest of the Park is properly supervised and protected from any drinking or anti-social behaviour spilling out of the Park.
Concerns were also raised by the Police and by Islington Council, and as a result of all the issues raised the hearing had to be adjourned until tomorrow (Monday 19th). During summer Finsbury Park is a garden and playground to many local families and I hope that the Licensing Committee listen to residents’ concerns and make sure this event is properly controlled.