Gateshead stadium embroiled in fresh controversy as residents object to upcoming music event

The home of Gateshead FC, Gateshead International Stadium, has become embroiled in fresh controversy after residents raised noise concerns over a house music event scheduled for the venue later this month.

The event is due to take place on October 30 and 31, with local DJ Ben Hemsley expected to perform to around 6,000 ravers across the two days, but objections have been submitted to Gateshead Council over an application for an entertainment and alcohol licence.

Residents raise noise concerns

The objections follow complaints about noise from events held at the stadium in September, including the Accelerate Festival on September 25 and 26.

Newcastle City Councillor for Byker ward Nick Hartley said he had been “directly affected by the noise” from the venue.

“Music was clearly audible from my home for significant periods of the event, continuing until 23:00, the noise was intrusive,” Hartley said.

“This was not an isolated experience. I was contacted by numerous residents in St Peter's Basin and the wider Byker area reporting similar disturbance.”

A resident living opposite the stadium in St Peter's Basin also described the impact of the September event, telling the BBC they had to “endure two days of incessant noise”.

The resident said: “I have already complained over that event as to how often the noise level was checked, as the decibel level was so high I had to close all my windows and doors.”

Organiser Lab3events Ltd said the upcoming event would be the third it had held at Gateshead International Stadium, adding that previous “liaison and collaboration with responsible authorities worked exceptionally well”.

In a response to the objections, Licence Leader Ltd, acting on behalf of the applicant, said the September events had operated with a “comprehensive system of sound monitoring and regulation” that was fully compliant with the relevant guidelines and requirements.

Gateshead Council's licensing sub-committee is due to decide on the entertainment and alcohol licence application on Thursday.

FGG says: A difficult dilemma

This dispute highlights the challenge of staging events like this close to residential areas and it is no surprise to see residents raising concerns.

It will be interesting to see what decision the council makes as that will likely have a major impact on any future events at Gateshead International Stadium.