This year’s Cliff Top Music Festival in Christchurch has won permission to operate across two days for the first time this year despite objections from locals.
Stir Events secured approval from BCP Council’s Licensing Sub-Committee for the extra hours, and the new licence permits music and activities on both Saturday the 5th, and Sunday 6th of September.
The decision was reached following a hearing on 7 January 2026 at which the committee examined written representations, the applicant’s responses and evidence from Responsible Authorities.
During proceedings, both Dorset Police and Environmental Health confirmed they had no objections to the application. A number of initial objections from local residents were subsequently withdrawn after mediation.
The licence now permits live music and related activities on Saturday from 11:00 until 20:00 and Sunday from 11:00 until 17:00.
Councillors noted that the festival was originally established to promote and grow the Highcliffe area and that, with strengthened management plans in place, the application met all four statutory licensing objectives. The committee’s decision reflects confidence that the extended event can be delivered safely and with appropriate regard for the local community.
Mandy Polkey, Managing Director of Stir Events CIC, said the organisation had listened to concerns and made responsible changes to its plans. She added that the decision enables the festival to continue offering cultural, social and economic benefits to Highcliffe while maintaining respect for residents’ interests.
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