Wilderness - beats still pumping at gone 1.15am!

Tue 6 Aug, 19:47

How much do the Wilderness organisers pay Charlbury each year?

I think we should be told.

Tue 6 Aug, 18:50 (last edited on Tue 6 Aug, 18:54)

I guess this could go in the other thread as well but just for the record, there was a WODC team measuring sound levels at 11.15 on Sunday night at the junction of Dyers Hill and Church Lane.  Don’t it make you proud to be a Council Tax payer? 

I should have asked if there were others but was still reeling from dancing the night away to a great swing band at the Atrium while most were watching Jessie Ware. 

Recent analysis of animal bones found around Stonehenge shows they were reared in different parts of the country – in other words, people travelled there from far and wide for – festivals?  No massive PA systems then, admittedly (though it might have been the Rolling Stones' first gig - sorry!).  But fast forward a few thousand years to the lawless sounding Wychwood Forest Fair which attracted 20, 000+, with special excursion trains to – guess where? – before being banned in 1855… 

So, nothing new under the sun is there?  Including that the English will always find something to complain about  (“You should have seen the traffic on The Ridgeway…”). My brother in law found at least half a dozen over the weekend – and he was actually there.  But then, he’s from Tunbridge Wells.  And worryingly, I agreed with most of them.

I don’t mean to belittle legitimate concerns, have expressed my own in the past, especially on pedestrian safety (now better), just trying for a bit of perspective.  Janet’s right of course.  As always, it’s a question of balance.  Which includes pleasure (and economics) for the many (30K + I seem to recall) v the short lived inconvenience for locals – who may benefit in lots of ways too.  It might be better managed in some respects and a lot of money making for sure but not all into corporate pockets - and collections also for a charity working in Ukraine…..

Tue 6 Aug, 17:56 (last edited on Tue 6 Aug, 18:00)

That address appears to be working, but if it doesn't then try ers@publicagroup.uk

Councillors do not attend the meetings of the Safety Advisory Group, only officers, police etc. Nor would it work for us to do so as we can't represent everyone's views. However, any comments made by members of the public will be considered as part of the review process.

Tue 6 Aug, 17:42 (last edited on Tue 6 Aug, 17:48)

Hi Liz,

Just to let you know that the email you posted is incorrect. Please could you let us know the correct email for the WODC. 

Do you happen to know if anyone from our local councillors etc will be representing Charlbury residents will be attending this WODC Safety Advisory Group/ Wilderness meeting in autumn? 

Many thanks,

Mon 5 Aug, 20:23

It might take them a few months to catch up with her though Alan

Mon 5 Aug, 20:15 (last edited on Mon 5 Aug, 20:46)

Have you been to Glastonbury Chris? I think it might be the King of Festival Kings and I bet the locals are just as inconvenienced!

It's a bit of a 'if of you can't beat them, join them' scenario. We are fortunate to have Wilderness on our doorstep but they do need to turn the volume down beyond 11pm in my opinion. Saturday night was lovely  (thank you wind!)after a long day at work after broken sleep on Friday night 

[post moved from the “we like Wilderness” thread to the “we don’t like Wilderness” thread ––Richard]

Mon 5 Aug, 17:58

Janet - I fear that if you did park your car with windows open and radio blaring, you would get a visit from the Performing Rights Society demanding you pay for a license for live entertainment!

Mon 5 Aug, 17:05

Do Mama Festivals pay an incentive fee to hold Wilderness Festival in Charlbury?

Mon 5 Aug, 15:32 (last edited on Mon 5 Aug, 15:33)

As in previous years, you can submit your comments on the event to the licensing team at WODC, ers.licensingandapplications@publicagroup.uk. 

There will be a review in the autumn, which as Richard says will involve all of the relevant parties.

Mon 5 Aug, 13:07

The Safety Advisory Group at WODC brings together the responsible authorities to discuss how an event went, whether it was in compliance with its licence and so on: https://www.westoxon.gov.uk/business-and-licensing/apply-or-renew-licences-and-permits/organising-public-events/event-safety/

Mon 5 Aug, 12:46

What are the facts is an important thing to think about, measure and track. 

Who is responsible and accountable for this, at Wilderness Festival, and at our local council? 

Is there a review meeting to discuss learnings?

Impact of increased lorries and cars on the roads, emissions from this additional volume of traffic in the air in Charlbury e.g. people with asthma. 

Mon 5 Aug, 12:11

Completely agree with you Simon.

Mon 5 Aug, 11:56

I can honestly say that I would be quite happy if the Wilderness Festival never happens again. I personally have no interest in going, have been disrupted by the noise, inconvenienced by all of the additional traffic, and the parking this year, whilst cured on Grammer School Hill, was terrible down Hixet Wood and other areas of the town. The traffic stopping to chat to the marshals at the road closure was causing vehicles to queue back into the main road, I am very surprised that there were not any accidents. 

I appreciate that many people enjoy going, and thats their choice, but I am sure that there are many folk who feel the same as me.

Mon 5 Aug, 11:40 (last edited on Tue 6 Aug, 17:56)

I think it is safe to say that most residents would like Wilderness to stay but the organisers and the local council has to address this year's issues concerning noise disturbance and license. Hopefully a solution will be found and next year there will be an improvement. 

I  spoke to Robin on the Wilderness resident hotline this morning. He gave me two emails for those who would like to register their complaints/feedback about the event.

Wilderness Licensing Coordinator - Ella Marshall - residents@wildernessfestival.com 

WODC Noise Pollution Team ( who are meant to be monitoring the event) 

customer.services@westoxon.gov.uk

Is there anyone on the town council who is in contact with the Wilderness event management team who can help with the residents concerns? 

Many thanks,

Mon 5 Aug, 09:40

Very well put Janet

Mon 5 Aug, 09:21

Well put Janet. Thinking about next year - can someone advise a) how to express concern to the council and b) will residents of all the surrounding villages be alerted as to when Wilderness make their next application? That would allow all those who consider the noise intolerable to make representations alongside Wilderness' request. And propose a sensible cut off time.

Mon 5 Aug, 08:24

Yes, from memory, last year (2023) the noise levels were well managed. But this year??? 

And yes, we all have different interests and for many Wilderness is one. And seems it has been a success for many. 

But others have other priorities such as having to work and needing a good nights sleep and so have no option but to put up with the noise.  Others simply want to be able to enjoy their home. Last night the level of noise was such that even with our windows closed I could still hear the base beat.

  So there is clearly a balance to be struck. And attention to the level of noise is one. 

A final thought - I do wonder what the response would be of those attending if one were to park a car outside their home in the late evening for several hours with car windows open and radio at full volume. 

Sun 4 Aug, 22:31

Just spoken to them again, apparently only 15 more minutes of it ?

Sun 4 Aug, 22:28 (last edited on Sun 4 Aug, 22:32)

It's really annoying Drum and Bass "music"! 

https://www.wildernessfestival.com/music/bicep-present-chroma-av-dj-set/

Sun 4 Aug, 22:20 (last edited on Sun 4 Aug, 22:23)

That's interesting 🤔, when I spoke to wilderness yesterday, they told me that Sunday night was an earlier finish of midnight for the music 

Sun 4 Aug, 22:18

I am absolutely sick of this. 

Sun 4 Aug, 22:18

Main stage due to finish at 10-45pm. 😁

Sun 4 Aug, 22:12 (last edited on Sun 4 Aug, 22:43)

Apparently WODC agreed to a higher noise level this year requested by Wilderness. 

“Simon Taylor, who represented the festival at the council meeting, said: "We will work on our traffic management plan and noise management plan."

In relation to some objections, he added that to "compare this event with Glastonbury" was not helpful, and that debriefs from the 2023 festival were "very, very positive".

The higher noise level allowed at the festival, which takes place from 1-4 August, will be 65db, with a lower level of noise permitted after 02:00 BST.

( Unless some communication is had with the councils & Wilderness this will happen again next year) 

Sun 4 Aug, 22:11

Oh it's ok because remember the majority of Charlbury are all having fun! ... 🥱

Sun 4 Aug, 21:53

Certainly as loud as Friday if not louder. It simply is louder this year than previous years . Hoping for a finish before 3am ! Please! 

Sun 4 Aug, 21:49

I know it's still early but is this louder than ever? My dogs raving in the back garden. 

Sun 4 Aug, 18:27

To update your profile details you have to contact the admin from what I remember. Very straight forward

Sun 4 Aug, 18:21 (last edited on Sun 4 Aug, 18:25)

It wasn't a requirement when I joined either. When Richard Fairhurst took over the forum he made it one from what I can remember. I'm sure he had his reasons. This is a small town (not a village!) and everyone knows everyone! 

Sun 4 Aug, 18:18

Indeed, what preparation would Alexander like everyone to make?

Sun 4 Aug, 12:36

My surname is Withers and no the only reason it's not on the thread is because when I signed up many years ago to the forum I didn't realise it was a requirement!!!! And as for some of the comments on here I think people ARE missing the point- No-one especially myself wish for the fun to stop or for everyone to stop enjoying Wilderness or any other local events i just wish that Wilderness would be more considerate and keep the volume down after 11pm and then stop everything by 1pm I still don't think that I am being unreasonable or unfair wishing this.I would love to know how Alexander would like us all to prepare months in advance for Wilderness? 

Sun 4 Aug, 12:19

Can we leave personal comments out of this thread so it doesn’t have to go off to the Debate board? Thank you.

Sun 4 Aug, 10:41 (last edited on Sun 4 Aug, 12:33)

"Ear Plugs - a possible solution" - the solution is for Wilderness to be considerate - just turn down the volume!.  Nobody is denying anyone any fun but beyond 1am is not reasonable. 

Sun 4 Aug, 10:32

A change in the direction of the wind 

Sun 4 Aug, 10:10

(on this thread) Amanda, martin and Steve L is there a reason why you don't give your surname?

Sun 4 Aug, 10:05

No noise issues here last night. Vast improvement on Friday. Is someone from Wilderness paying attention? Whatever the case, thank you :)

Sun 4 Aug, 09:41

One more night to go and then we can get back to parking issues and hedgehogs.

Sun 4 Aug, 01:26

At 1:07 am was was woken up to the thumping of the music  and the yelling of several people which were trying to get some lady to stop screaming about how she caught her boyfriend cheating on her

Wait, yes just heard what sounded like several glass bottles hitting the ground, hope no one gets hurt

Sat 3 Aug, 23:39

Or they have all driven here?

Sat 3 Aug, 23:21

"How many visitors attended Wilderness this year?" no idea - the trains coming into Charlbury have seemed quieter than previous years. My guess is the Cost of Living Crisis could still be hitting hard?

Sat 3 Aug, 20:44

Please be careful driving into Charlbury on Hixet Wood.  Cars parked from the 5 ways junction creating a long single tracked road.  Just came nose to nose with another car who reluctantly reversed back 10 metres to allow me through. Maybe road cones need to be put out there as well? Genuinely concerned with all these cars being abandoned for the weekend. Surely Wilderness should provide parking so that Charlbury doesn’t become a car park. 

Sat 3 Aug, 20:29

How many visitors attended Wilderness Festival this year? 

Sat 3 Aug, 19:52

IIm sorry it just not about the noise but people walking about early in the morning, ranting and swearing, the vomit everywhere, beer cans,bottles, rubbish everywhere, urinating and defecating where they want so their litter and rubbish everywhere, damage to cars and property

And we end up having to clean it up

Sat 3 Aug, 19:45

I have no doubt last night was a blast, it's this morning that people had the issue with.

Sat 3 Aug, 18:26

Plenty of time to prepare for Wilderness. Hope everyone there is having a fantastic time. Last night was a blast 🎸

Sat 3 Aug, 18:02

I wonder what the deer, foxes, owls and badgers make of the thumpy music on this Site Of Special Scientific Interest?

Sat 3 Aug, 15:28

Ear Plugs - a possible solution 

Sat 3 Aug, 14:30

Wonderful day and evening, we're so lucky to have this on our doorstep.  Thanks Wilderness.

Sat 3 Aug, 14:05

Ha ha ha the monitoring equipment which is actually a guy sat in his car texting on his mobile for half an hour like last year and last night's at 2am. I know as I went out to ask why he was sat in my road! There is no monitoring and there is no need to monitor as the license has already been agreed and the festival can do whatever they like until whatever time they like as it will if course be renewed again next year. It really is a joke! 

Sat 3 Aug, 13:32

Sorry if I was noisy, it was a great night, fantastic festival. Fell deeply sleep around 1-30ish. Will try to last until 3am today/tomorrow. 😁🍻

Sat 3 Aug, 13:03

I have spoken to the local residents number and they have said it's odd that we have noise issues as the licence, although 4 am before and what they applied for , they are only allowed to go to 3 am ? ( Which I find odd as some acts go to 4am)

I have also been told that they will have the monitoring equipment out and about after 11pm when the main stage music is on .

Sat 3 Aug, 12:46

Incidentally, I don't think anybody suggesting people enjoy 361 tranquil days a year can actually live in the most affected area!  Construction work creates lots of noise for up to a month beforehand, with 1-2 weeks of deconstruction afterwards, including late night and weekend working, and lots of overspill music from workers' and festival goers' campsites after hours and on days when there isn't supposed to be music.

Sat 3 Aug, 12:39

I thought it was completely absurd when they applied to change the license for music to 4.00am rather than 2.00am and said so at the time, but the council doesn't seem to want to risk anything that might upset "big business".  And of course there is lots of support for the festival in the town, which sometimes seems to come over as "it's a good thing so let them do whatever they want to", rather than "it's a good thing so we should try to accommodate them while striking a balance with the legitimate concerns of those affected." 

Sat 3 Aug, 12:17

Up here at the western edge of The Green, where we have lived for 20 years, the sound levels were quite noticeably louder than ever before. And unlike previous events with wind speed and direction directly carrying sound this time the wind direction was a bit off “ optimal “…

Long post - click to read full text

Sat 3 Aug, 10:06

"On behalf of the majority"? Sorry Paul, but not sure how you can say that. I know people in Stonesfield and Leafield who are despairing after last night's noise and face not one but 3 in succession sleepless nights. So much noise is simply anti social.

Sat 3 Aug, 09:54

Good news been in contact with Wilderness music will finish early today 3am!

Sat 3 Aug, 08:40

The sound in the last few years hasn’t been a problem as the speakers were facing the other way. I don’t know about this year but all I know is it is pretty loud in the small hours 

Sat 3 Aug, 08:37

It is a problem if you have to get up early and go to work a 9 hour shift

Sat 3 Aug, 08:30 (last edited on Mon 5 Aug, 11:45)

I love Wilderness festival but the music (& the guy on megaphone from the red bus) definitely seems to be much much louder this year. Just for context my home faces Cornbury Park and i can hear the music & bassline driving through my closed double glazing windows. 

Previous years it was not such an issue at all & is nice to hear the festival and people having a great time. This year the noise has been exceptionally loud. We were kept awake with the pumping Valley techno until 3/4am on Friday and Saturday night.  

I’m wondering if anything has changed on-site or if the Wilderness team could make some improvements for next year? 

Sat 3 Aug, 08:11

Agree with you Amanda , I don't think it's unreasonable to expect the music to stop by 11.30 . We could hear it at the opposite end of Charlbury (while trying to sleep ) at 1.30 am . Love to hear local events are encouraging people to come to our lovely town but come on , carrying on the noise until 4am hardly fair to residents .

Sat 3 Aug, 08:03

From a quick but of research Glastonbury and Reading festivals finish around midnight . 

Sat 3 Aug, 07:41

Oh and Paul if you would like to come and look after my two autistic grandchildren today please feel free as this grandma is feeling pretty tired already 🤣

Sat 3 Aug, 07:39 (last edited on Sat 3 Aug, 07:58)

It would be lovely to stop moaning if they would just be a little more considerate at 2.30am I was still listening to it and if I had wanted to join the fun I would have bought a ticket! It's interesting that local events like riverside,beer festival and street fair all finish by 10am and festivals and events like Feastival, Cornbury,Truck and Nocturne are all done by 11.30pm yet a four day event can make a din until  l 4am! I would just appreciate a reasonable cut off time 1am even but not 4am for four days, I don't think that's unreasonable! 

Sat 3 Aug, 07:00 (last edited on Sat 3 Aug, 07:08)

Hello

I am letting them "have their fun" , you'll have to excuse me if I was expecting them to stick to there own rules ? 

I was hoping they would have continued what they have been doing the last couple of years , like Harriet mentioned , where it gets quieter as it goes into the evening 

Sat 3 Aug, 06:22

On behalf of the majority, for goodness sake stop moaning. You have known for some time the event happens. A huge amount of local people love it and embrace it. It’s not every weekend in fact once a year. Let them have their fun and enjoy the tranquil nights for the other 361 days a year!

Sat 3 Aug, 06:13 (last edited on Sat 3 Aug, 06:14)

I think the issue is the same as previously when it's been noisy in charlbury - wind speed and direction. I'm not sure they can do anything about that. 

When I could hear it yesterday evening despite being deaf I knew there'd be complaints, vs last year when I couldn't. 

Sat 3 Aug, 01:44

I'm guessing the ones that make the decisions are also the ones that don't have to live through it 

Sat 3 Aug, 01:40

Amanda - I am trying to use that app, what reporting organisation are we meant to be reporting to ? 

Sat 3 Aug, 01:37

Wow this is not acceptable. 4am! Yes it may only be once a year but seriously fed up as I do actually have to get up very early.....

Sat 3 Aug, 01:27

It's until 4 am ! , although they are meant to have a progressive limit on the noise, so the later it goes, the quieter it has to be .  Somehow I think there not sticking to it !

https://publicaccess.westoxon.gov.uk/online-applications/licencingDetails.do?activeTab=documents&keyVal=S4FFEERK05600

Proposed conditions 

Sat 3 Aug, 01:26

Conveniently the noise app server is down so we are not able to report the noise level that is keeping us up!

Sat 3 Aug, 01:17

How late is the license?