Angus charity event organisers say they fear for the future after a hike in licensing charges which could lead to a staggering 375% rise for some big scale events.
Following recent concerns raised by the organisers of the hugely successful Montrose Music Festival that spiralling costs could place the event at risk, bodies such as Carnoustie gala have expressed dismay over a decision by Angus councillors to impose a public entertainment licence (PEL) charge increase which will see their bill more than double.
But the new rates have been defended by elected members, who said registered charities will actually benefit from a reduction in charges.
Public entertainment licences were previously subject to a flat rate of £154 for grants and £128 for renewals, with discounted rates of £36 and £29 respectively for charities.
However, officials pointed out that the flat rates did not take into account the disproportionate amount of work put into processing applications for larger or temporary venues and a review was instigated, including a plan to replace a one-year renewal with a three-year one at 175% of the single year cost.
The new fees will mean a £31 annual charge and £61.25 three-year rate for charities – drops of 5% and 32% from the previous figures.
Events for under 200 people will also see an 11% PEL reduction to £140, but all other categories — up to 10,000-plus gatherings — will be faced with charge rises of between 27% and 375%. For an event attracting 10,000 people or more the single year charge will now be £750.
Arbroath community council treasurer Morag Lindsay and Ed Oswald of Carnoustie gala committee both addressed civic licensing councillors on the impact of the fees rise and said the increases would make it more difficult to put an event on.
Mr Oswald said: “From a modest event formed in 1989, Carnoustie gala is now a huge undertaking for a dedicated band of volunteers.
“The gala committee is not a registered charity, we have looked at that on several occasions and decided not to go down that route, but it has raised more than £150,000 over the years for local causes and is the highlight of the calendar.
“I agree with the general principle that fees should cover the costs incurred. Last year we paid £154 while a registered charity was £36, but the costs for us will rise to £350 — that’s 122% up — while the charity fee will decrease by 5%.
“It’s important to recognise the tremendous work done by volunteers in Angus, not just registered charities,” he said.
Civic licensing convener Alex King said groups also had the opportunity to “piggy back” on to community councils for the reduced rate which they will now also enjoy.
Arbroath councillor David Fairweather added: “I agree completely with Arbroath community council about how difficult it is to raise funds. We should certainly be working with the community councils, it is good for community spirit.”
