Carnglaze Caverns Fights Licence Revocation in Cornwall

Carnglaze Caverns, a distinctive underground music and events venue near Liskeard in St Neot, Cornwall, is currently appealing Cornwall Council’s decision to revoke its licence. The council’s licensing act sub-committee made the initial ruling based on significant safety concerns following an incident where a visitor fell into an underground lake during a drum and bass event. This decision has sparked considerable local discussion and highlights the delicate balance between public safety regulations and the economic and cultural contributions of unique community assets.

The venue, renowned for its atmospheric concerts, weddings, and family attractions, is a significant employer and tourism draw for rural Cornwall. Its management contends that robust safety measures are in place and that the incident was an isolated event, emphasizing their long history of operation without major issues. They argue that the revocation would have severe economic repercussions, potentially leading to job losses and a reduction in local tourism revenue, impacting suppliers and accommodation providers in the St Neot and Liskeard areas. The appeal, lodged at Plymouth Magistrates’ Court, seeks to overturn the decision, allowing the caverns to resume its full range of licensed activities.

However, the council maintains that public safety is paramount, citing expert evidence presented during the sub-committee hearing. The unique underground environment of Carnglaze Caverns presents specific challenges regarding emergency exits, crowd management, and lighting, which were likely central to the council’s concerns. While many local residents and music enthusiasts lament the potential loss of such a unique cultural hub, some residents have previously raised concerns about noise and traffic during large events, underscoring the mixed community impact. The outcome of the appeal will be crucial for the future of Carnglaze Caverns, determining whether this beloved local landmark can continue to host events and contribute to the vibrant cultural landscape of Cornwall.

(Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cm210p80djno?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss)