Pop-up summer beer garden plans at old mill may be scuppered over health and safety

Plans to create a beer garden at an old mill near Manchester city centre this summer may be scuppered as the council raises health and safety concerns. Manchester brewers ShinDigger have applied to host the 'Secret Garden' events every weekend in July and August at Talbot Mill in Ellesmere Street.

The events would take place in the courtyard of a disused mill which property developer Capital and Centric plans to convert into around 200 apartments. As well serving booze from 1pm to 11pm every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, organisers are considering hiring DJs for the first and last events scheduled.

But licensing officers at Manchester council have expressed concerns about the noise created by the events as well as health and safety issues at the mill. The application to host the events - which officers have recommended to be refused - will be put to a vote by councillors at a licensing hearing next week.

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ShinDigger is now considering reducing the capacity of the events - currently 400 people - and closing earlier in a bid to find a compromise with the council. ShinDigger co-founder George Grant said: "We are aware a representation has been made by the Licensing Out of Hours Team.

"We have taken on board their feedback, and are open to reducing the capacity and having an earlier close time. We are hopeful we can reach an agreement with the Licensing Team which will address the concerns raised and we can proceed with the project."

In a report to the panel, the licensing and out of hours compliance team shared 'serious concerns' regarding health and safety after visiting the mill courtyard. Their representation also