Plans to expand opening days and extend licensed operating hours at Kynren have been approved by councillors, writes Local Democracy Reporter, Bill Edgar.
Durham County Council’s licensing committee granted an application from 11Arches, which operates the historical attraction in Bishop Auckland, allowing the site to increase the number of public show days and broaden its licensed activities throughout the year.
The changes will allow a summer season to run from 18 July to 12 September, increasing the number of public show days from 18 to 57.
The approval comes as Kynren prepares to launch its new attraction, Kynren – The Storied Lands, in July, featuring five live shows and immersive experiences inspired by history, myth and legend.
The expanded programme will operate alongside the attraction’s existing 18 evening performances of Kynren and two pyromusical events held each November.
Up to eight thousand visitors are expected to attend evening shows with a further five thousand predicted for daytime shows, the licensing hearing was told.
Under the revised licence, the existing restriction on Sunday activities has been removed, while opening hours have been extended until 11pm from Monday to Thursday and on Sundays, and until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays.
The licence also permits late-night refreshment until 1am on Fridays and Saturdays, while alcohol can now be sold throughout the year, seven days a week, including off-sales for the first time.
The committee heard one objection during the consultation period from a nearby resident, who said the proposals would “encroach significantly” on neighbouring communities, including Dial Stob Hill, The Batts and Toronto.
In a written submission, the resident said noise from loudspeakers, late-night activity in car parks and increased traffic had already affected local people.
They warned that extending the licence could worsen congestion and potentially lead to gridlock on surrounding roads.
Responding to the concerns, 11Arches said it had carefully considered the issues raised and submitted independent reports alongside details of operational measures designed to mitigate any impact.
The organisation said the proposed measures were “appropriate, proportionate and sufficient” to promote the licensing objectives and support the application.
Members of the licensing committee voted to approve the licence variation.
Bill Edgar
Reporter for the Local Democracy Reporter Service.
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
