CALLS have been made to move a popular festival in the heart of Colchester elsewhere following concerns from residents after damage to a beloved beauty spot.
The highly anticipated Oktoberfest is coming back again following a huge sell-out year in 2023.
The Bavarian-style beer festival returns on October 4 and 5, once again offering a selection of traditional German Bier, as well as other drinks, German food, entertainment and more.
The event is very popular among Colchester residents and has been a staple event in the city centre for many years.
However, calls are now being made to consider moving the event away from Lower Castle Park, following damage to the grass and resident’s concerns over behaviour from festivalgoers.
The award-winning beauty spot has suffered damage to the site on two occasions in both 2019 and 2023.
Last year, waterlogged ground meant turf was churned up as large vehicles were used to pack away the event.
Event organisers apologised for the damage and worked with Colchester Events and the city council to repair the land.
City centre councillor Mark Goacher said: “This is an event that generates a lot of concern from our residents in the Dutch Quarter in particular.
“As well as damage to the park grass there have been instances of groups urinating up houses and other raucous behaviour.
“It’s an event very much enjoyed by those who attend but it would be a relief to many residents if it was moved to another location more fitting like a field somewhere.
“Like the Glastonbury Festival where the event could be expanded without upsetting residents.”
Fellow city centre councillor Steph Nissen also stressed the importance of avoiding damage to Castle Park.
She said: "It’s great to hear that Oktoberfest is coming back to Colchester.
"It was a huge draw and success, providing a fun experience for attendees.
"But event organisers and Amphora must ensure that last year’s damage to Castle Park isn’t repeated.
"Taxpayers shouldn’t have to bear the cost of repairs to the grass, and the longer-than-planned closure impacted local residents and pedestrians alike.
"Hopefully with a bit of forward planning, any likely issues can be prevented - and we can all focus on enjoying the event."
On the possibility of a move, Colchester Council leisure boss Michelle Burrows said: “We are always keen to keep under review the impact of events on our locations.
“This is a great location, it’s well-known, and we are not likely to move it.
“But we are open for consultation if and when required.”
A spokesman for the event said: "We as Colchester Amphora Trading Ltd will be working with Oktoberfest in 2024.
"The event will return to the city centre at the beginning of October.
"2023 has been reviewed and additional control measures and processes will be in place."
Sign up for the Oktoberfest pre-sale on January 31 at oktoberfestcolchester.co.uk.
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