Councillors to discuss park fair controversy

The controversy surrounding a fun fair in a popular park is set to be discussed by members of Dudley Council.

At a meeting on Wednesday October 21, members of the Ernest Stevens Management Committee, which oversees activity at Mary Stevens Park in Stourbridge, will be asked to consider a report on the impact of holding a fair at the site on the surrounding community.

A fair at the park in July and August 2026 caused concern for people living near the who said it created a disturbance.

A report for the committee signed by Jim Deakin, Dudley director of neighbourhood services, said: “During the event, the council received a number of complaints from local residents regarding noise from the music being played at the fair and from equipment used to power the rides.

“Council officers attended the site and contacted the event organiser to make the necessary adjustments. The funfair was permitted to operate between noon and 7pm.”

Concerns about the fair prompted community campaigners David Sheppard and Lois Bramall to write an open letter to the committee in July demanding a rethink.

The letter said: “A large number of residents have contacted us to express their horror at the decision, voicing concerns over increased pressure on parking, litter and noise.”

The letter went on to say the pair believed nearby Swan Pool Park would be a more fitting venue for the fair.

The report for the management committee meeting said: “Mary Stevens Park was selected as the most appropriate site, as other large sites were undergoing maintenance during this period.

“Although the event occupied part of the park, there remained sufficient grassed areas for general public use and enjoyment.”

The Harry Jones Company, which operated the fair in 2026 Mary Stevens Park fair, says it has health and safety advisers and consultants to ensure requirements are ‘not only met but exceeded’ and also provides site managers and health and safety officers for the duration of events.

Mr Deakin’s report added: “While the funfair equipment was on site, the organiser was present 24 hours a day and resided in a caravan situated within the fenced event area.”

By Martyn Smith | Local Democracy Reporting Service