Venue licence under review after three-day festival at Chelmsford City Racecourse

Chelmsford City Racecourse is facing a licence review following public safety concerns raised after hosting the Chelmsford City Live music festival last month. The three-day event, which drew approximately 25,000 attendees and featured headline performances from global stars including Justin Timberlake, has prompted scrutiny from Essex Police and local authorities.

The venue’s licence to host live music and sell alcohol is under formal review due to reported issues including crime and disorder, public safety risks, and public nuisance. Frustrated festival-goers reported long delays leaving the site, with some claiming they were “stranded in a field” as traffic congestion caused hours-long queues in the car parks.

A spokesperson for Chelmsford City Racecourse defended the venue’s operations, stating: “We’ve consistently demonstrated a commitment to operating within the parameters of our licence, with robust measures in place to ensure safety, compliance, and responsible event management.” They added that the venue would continue working with local authorities to deliver events within existing conditions.

Chelmsford City Council confirmed that a hearing will take place within the next three weeks to determine whether the licence should be amended or revoked. However, the outcome of the review will not affect the venue’s horse racing schedule.

The review follows growing concerns about the management of large-scale events at the racecourse and the impact on local infrastructure and residents. The decision could set a precedent for future licensing conditions at similar venues across Essex.