THE popular speedway arena near Highbridge can stage its first music concert after organisers won a battle to overturn the district council's previous decision.

Sedgemoor's Licensing Panel agreed with residents earlier this month that Oak Tree Arena should not stage a two-day Abba and Bee Gees concert over the August 28/29 weekend, due to noise pollution.

The day after the denial, talks between the council and the Bristol Road venue continued.

The council's environmental health officers attended sound checks, deeming noise levels acceptable, and one of the nearby protesters withdrew their misgivings, prompting the council to withdraw its objection.

Organisers OTA Promotions subsequently argued for the event at a Sedgemoor Magistrates' Court appeal hearing and received a licence due to the council's turnaround.

Solicitor Brendan Steer, representing OTA, said: "It's brilliant dialogue between the parties continued and after talks, sensible people came together to make a decision based on information presented.

"We are looking forward to staging the event, where else locally can you get such a family evening for the price people will pay?"

They propose to have music from 6pm to midnight but were open to being flexible.

At the original licensing panel meeting, Mr Steer debated hard and said they would do anything reasonable to stage the gigs including install inaudibility points, having one trained doorman per 75 people and give complaining neighbours a free ticket.

Two of four residents present supporting also argued the events would boost tourism.

The council panel spent an hour over its decision and eventually refused the venue its chance – listening to ten householders as well as the council's environmental health team.

Police also objected but withdrew their complaint after Mr Steer said he could adhere to their four points – having one trained doorman to 75 people, a CRB-checked person to help lost children, proper control of ticket sales with none sold on the evening, and additional road signs for the event.

For more information about the tribute evenings call Oak Tree on 01278 782216.