Tolkien Society Files Application for Entertainment License at Historic Birmingham Park
The Tolkien Society has formally applied to Birmingham City Council for a premises license that would authorize regulated entertainment activities at Sarehole Recreation Ground. According to a public notice dated April 10, 2026, published through Birmingham Mail, the society seeks permission to host various entertainment events daily between 10am and 5pm at this significant location.
Comprehensive Details of the Licensing Application
The application specifies Sarehole Recreation Ground on Cole Bank Road, Birmingham B13 0BD, as the site where the Tolkien Society intends to conduct licensable activities. These activities include plays, films, indoor sporting events, boxing or wrestling entertainments, live music, recorded music, dance performances, and any similar forms of entertainment. The proposed operating hours are from 10am to 5pm every day of the week, with activities potentially occurring both on and off the premises.
Key application details:
- Applicant: The Tolkien Society
- Site Address: Sarehole Recreation Ground, Cole Bank Road, Birmingham B13 0BD
- Requested Hours: Monday through Sunday, 10am to 5pm
- Consultation Deadline: Midnight on May 7, 2026
- Licensing Agent: PMB Licensing, contactable at 07779351620
It is important to note that making false statements in connection with this application constitutes an offense under section 158 of the Licensing Act 2003, potentially resulting in fines upon summary conviction.
Public Consultation Process and Submission Guidelines
Residents and interested parties can view the complete premises license application on Birmingham City Council's Licensing Act 2003 electronic public register. Those wishing to submit representations or raise objections must do so in writing by the consultation deadline of midnight on May 7, 2026.
Submission methods include:
- Email to licensing@birmingham.gov.uk
- Post to General Licensing, Regulation and Enforcement, PO Box 17831, Birmingham B2 2HJ
All representations must include the submitter's full name and address, clearly state how concerns relate to the four licensing objectives—prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, prevention of public nuisance, and protection of children from harm—and provide any supporting evidence or specific issues for council consideration.
Scope and Implications of the Proposed License
If approved, this premises license would enable the Tolkien Society to organize daytime events featuring performances, screenings, and musical presentations at Sarehole Recreation Ground. Notably, the application covers regulated entertainment exclusively and does not include authorization for alcohol sales. All proposed activities would be confined to the hours between 10am and 5pm daily.
Local considerations that may arise during the consultation period include:
- Noise management and sound level controls during performances
- Stewarding arrangements, crowd management protocols, and public safety measures
- Transport access, parking availability, and potential traffic impacts on Cole Bank Road and adjacent residential streets
- Safeguarding procedures and appropriate measures for children and families attending events
- Litter control, waste management, and protection of the park environment
Residents who believe they might be adversely affected by the proposed license are strongly encouraged to submit timely representations to the licensing authority.
Next Steps in the Licensing Decision Process
Following the consultation closure, Birmingham City Council will review all relevant representations received. Applications that generate no objections may be decided by council officers exercising delegated powers. However, if valid objections are submitted, the council will typically convene a licensing sub-committee hearing to thoroughly consider the application and potential conditions.
Possible conditions that might be imposed include restrictions on operating hours, noise control measures, event management plan requirements, or capacity limitations. The licensing sub-committee may decide to grant the license, grant it with specific conditions attached, or refuse the application entirely. All parties retain the right to appeal the final decision.
This public notice serves informational purposes only. Complete details are available through the council's official licensing register and the original public notice portal listing.
