SUMMER events like concerts and a classic car show could be put on at Severn Beach.

A series of summer events such as outdoor concerts and a classic car show could be put on at Severn Beach.

The promenade could soon become the stage for a range of events, including outdoor theatre and dance performances, including a pop-up bar.

The quiet village in South Gloucestershire has grown in popularity with visitors since the pandemic but lacks much to do there, other than walk and enjoy the peacefulness.

The new plan for outdoor events has split opinion, with some saying Severn Beach is too small and lacks adequate car parking.

A group of local residents have applied for a premises licence for an area of land at Promenade Gardens from South Gloucestershire Council.

Councillors on a licensing committee are due to vote on whether to grant the licence, during a hearing on Tuesday, June 11.

In licensing documents, the applicants said: “Severn Beach is South Gloucestershire’s premier seaside destination.

"Despite this it has no public house, no outdoor attractions, entertainment space nor band stand.

"Despite the absence of such attractions, the seafront area remains a popular destination for visitors who enjoy walking, cycling and bird watching.

“During the Covid pandemic, visitor numbers increased substantially and this added some much-needed vibrancy to the local economy.

"The Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group identified a desire for more community facilities including a bar at Severn Beach, and supported increased provision of entertainment for both residents and day tourists.”

The licence is being applied for by Severnside Events, which is a not-for-profit association established by locals.

If the plans go ahead, the annual Severnside Festival would be relocated to the seafront, and other events could include concerts and a classic car show.

Theatre and dance performances could also be put on, as well as a pop-up bar selling alcoholic drinks.

Amplified concerts could be put on along the promenade, and acoustic performances in Frances Barr Walk.

Alcohol would be allowed to be sold until 11pm on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and bank holiday Mondays.

It’s unclear if councillors on the licensing committee will vote to approve the premises licence, and let the events go ahead.

Two local residents wrote to the council, one objecting to the “ridiculous” plans and another supporting them for “enriching our village life with music”.

One resident said: “There is nowhere for this number of visitors to park.

"On any given weekend, cars are already double parking, blocking driveways and using double yellow lines. Some of these roads become a safety hazard.

"This is without a single event on. Traffic and parking became unmanageable and aggressive with a recent football match at the local park.

“What may have been a small idea has simply gotten out of hand and the village is not big enough.

"Many of our residents are elderly and Severn Beach is renowned for how quiet and simple it is. Just a small village with a nice coastal path — not the setting for a festival.”

Another resident added: “Living in a village that lacks entertainment venues or public houses, I have often felt the absence of a central hub where our community can come together.

"The initiative to establish Promenade Gardens as a licensed venue is not as I see a business proposition, but will represent a beacon of community spirit and togetherness.

“A licensed area will serve as a gathering place for residents, fostering social interactions and strengthening community bonds.

"With the ability to host events, Promenade Gardens will become a stage for cultural activities, enriching our village life with music, art and more.”