Essex Police dispersal order linked to Tide Festival this weekend, Maldon District councillor reveals

By Ben Shahrabi 25th Aug 2023

Local News by Ben Shahrabi 25th Aug 2023

Essex Police has issued a 'dispersal order' this weekend, due to a festival which has caused "significant local concern", according to a Maldon District councillor.

Tide Festival is set to take place over the August Bank Holiday Weekend, in an undisclosed location near Woodham Walter.

Maldon District councillor Mark Durham told Nub News the event is planned to take place at Hoe Mill, but police are reportedly unhappy with the safety arrangements.

The dispersal order covers Maldon and the surrounding villages, including Woodham Walter. It gives officers the power to disperse people who they suspect may cause issues later, even if not at the time officers encounter them. However, the order does not prevent residents or visitors being in the area.

Cllr Durham said: "The event, promoted as a rave, has caused significant local concern, particularly by Woodham Walter and Ulting parish councils.

"The organiser failed to demonstrate that sufficient precautions had been put in place. There is widespread concern that loud music is due to be played until midnight each day."

The area encompasses most of the Maldon and Danbury parishes and the main river network for the River Chelmer, from Chelmsford to Maldon. (Credit: Essex Police)

Organisers of the festival say it inspires people to make a positive contribution to the world. It celebrates "music, art, nature, health & wellbeing, food & drink, family, friendship, community, trade, freedom, and the future".

At this stage, Cllr Durham is unaware whether the organisers plan to go ahead with the event, but says the dispersal order could pose a "serious risk" to them.

Acting Inspector Graham Thomas said: "We want to prevent any disruption or disorder within the area specified, as we continue our work to keep people in Maldon safe.

"Anti-social behaviour is not low-level offending, and we are all too aware of the impact this offence will have on businesses and residents during the summer months."

The dispersal order will remain in place from today (August 25) until Sunday (August 27).

A spokesperson for Tide Festival has been approached for comment.