A decision to grant a booze license to Nine Oaks Vineyard in Hothfield, Kent has raised concerns among locals that the celebratory atmosphere at the vineyard could clash with the somber setting of the neighboring St Margaret’s graveyard. Thirteen objection letters were submitted by immediate neighbors, expressing worries about potential disturbances to mourners and visitors at the cemetery. The vineyard owners also plan to expand their open-air events to accommodate up to 250 visitors this summer, leading to concerns about traffic congestion on the narrow lane leading to the vineyard.
Despite objections from villagers, Nine Oaks Vineyard was granted a premises license with stipulations by Ashford Borough Council. Residents expressed fears that the arrival of revelers and the noise of wine-tasting events would disrupt families visiting graves and those attending burials at St Margaret’s. The vineyard owners, Martyn Pollock and Helen Matheson-Pollock, assured the council that their events and tours would not interfere with church activities and that measures would be taken to minimize noise and traffic issues. The license allows for the sale of alcohol from 10 am to 6 pm on Thursdays to Sundays, with limited wine tastings for up to 30 people at a time.
Residents raised concerns about potential traffic hazards on the single-lane Church Lane leading to the vineyard, as well as the impact of increased visitor numbers on the local community. Some villagers lamented that the peaceful nature of the village could be disrupted by large events at the vineyard, leading to safety risks for pedestrians and cyclists. The council approved the license application with conditions, including the condition that plans for large events be shared with the council and that alcohol consumption be restricted to designated areas supervised by staff. The vineyard owners emphasized their commitment to ensuring minimal disruption to local residents and maintaining a safe environment.
Neighbors of Nine Oaks Vineyard expressed apprehension about the proposed expansion of open-air events to accommodate a larger number of visitors, citing concerns about traffic congestion, safety risks, and potential disturbances to the peace and tranquility of the village. Despite these objections, the vineyard owners remain steadfast in their plans to offer a range of wine-tasting experiences and small-group vineyard tours, limiting alcohol sales to on-site consumption only. Measures will be taken to address noise levels, traffic management, and event coordination to mitigate concerns raised by local residents.
The approval of the premises license for Nine Oaks Vineyard has raised questions about the balance between community activities and the preservation of the local area’s peaceful ambiance. Residents are divided on the potential benefits and drawbacks of allowing alcohol sales and large events at the vineyard, with some expressing fears of disruption to the quiet character of the village. The vineyard owners maintain their commitment to responsible operations and community engagement, aiming to strike a balance between economic growth and environmental conservation. As the vineyard prepares for a busy summer season, ongoing dialogue between stakeholders will be crucial in addressing concerns and maintaining a harmonious relationship between the vineyard and the local community.
