RESIDENTS have crossed swords with English Heritage over plans to bring concerts to Beeston Castle, which could attract up to 5,000 people.

Owners of the historic site have also come under fire from Beeston councillors after applying to licence the Chapel Lane grounds for alcohol sales, live and recorded music, dance and plays between 10am and 6pm seven days a week.

Beeston parish and Chester city councillor Doug Haynes said: 'The hours of opening to the public seem over the top. English Heritage would have a licence to sell every day of the year.

'Beeston residents experience considerable disturbance on a regular basis from anti-social behaviour from youths using the castle out of hours, often in what appears to be a very drunken state.'

The parish council suggests alcohol sales would make things worse.

English Heritage told Chester City Council that all staff are trained in customer relations and health and safety. All events would be adequately staffed and monitored.

If large numbers of people were expected to attend or black powder or pyrotechnics were involved, the police would be informed. At least one qualified first-aider would be on duty.

Evening noise levels would be restricted to cause minimum disturbance.

English Heritage do not expect more than 5,000 at any one time.

Residents in the area have objected strongly to the proposals, but English Heritage pledged: 'Where events happen in the evening and include music, either live or recorded, noise levels will be restricted so as to cause minimum disturbance.'

The application will be discussed at Chester's licensing act sub committee on Tuesday.