Plans for a three-day Sicilian-themed festival on Richmond Green next summer have attracted 45 formal objections from local residents, who cite concerns about restricted public access to the popular open space and potential noise disturbance. The Marzamemi Festival is proposed to run from June 25 to 27, 2026, and would feature live Italian music, banquets, food stalls, cooking workshops, wine tasting, craft masterclasses, shopping, and children's activities.
Festival organisers seek first Richmond Green event
The festival, organised by founder Emily Ceraudo, would mark the first time the event is held on Richmond Green, having previously taken place at Old Deer Park. Organisers describe it as a “boutique, family-friendly celebration of Italian food, craft and culture on Richmond Green” that supports local businesses.
However, the proposals have drawn backlash from local groups and residents. Among the objectors are Friends of Richmond Green and The Richmond Society. Robert Tuday, representing The Richmond Society, told Richmond Council's licensing hearing on Monday evening (October 19) that the festival would remove “public access to a large area of Richmond Green for a substantial period, to the point of constituting a public nuisance”.
Objectors cite public nuisance and noise concerns
Mr Tuday said: “The festival involves the exclusive occupation by a commercial concern of a substantial area of the green, granting access to only those who pay, to the detriment of the non-paying public at large, who may wish to use the green and enjoy it as an amenity.”
Resident Vivien Harris added: “The nuisance would not be limited to residents. Visitors wishing to enjoy the remaining accessible areas of Richmond Green for relaxation, recreation or family outings would also be subjected to the noise.”
Lib Dem councillors Chris Varley, Massimo Chiesa, and Katie Mansfield also objected. Councillor Mansfield, lead member for Richmond Town Centre, said she did not believe “Richmond Green is the right location for an event of this scale or this format”.
Supporters praise family-friendly format
Despite the opposition, ten letters of support were received, describing the festival as a well-managed, family-friendly event that benefits the borough. Local mum and business owner Tara Stevens told the hearing the festival was “desperately needed” in the area, adding that organisers ensured it brought “just as much fun and engagement as it does safety for the whole family”.
Ms Stevens said: “We are begging for more activities like this, that are super curated for young families, to be closer to home.” Entry to the festival would be free for children.
Organisers address concerns with scaled-down plans
Festival founder Emily Ceraudo said she had addressed objectors' concerns by shrinking the footprint of the event to little more than a third of the green and enforcing strict noise limits. Performances would be held inside marquees, specialist equipment would limit noise, and a security team would ensure safety.
The event has capacity for up to 4,999 people per day. It would end by 9pm on June 25 and 26, and by 7pm on June 27. Ms Ceraudo added: “It’s very much a family-friendly festival... it’s at the forefront of the design of the event strategy.”
Richmond's licensing committee will publish its decision on the plans in the coming days.
