NEW REGULATIONS are set to be introduced at Titchfield Abbey to control late-night noise and fireworks after complaints from people living nearby.

Fareham planners are recommending to councillors tomorrow that popular events such as the annual Shakespeare Festival and blues festival continue to be staged at the abbey.

But they are insisting on introducing a two-year trial period banning any noise after 11pm and forbidding fireworks after 10pm.

Titchfield ward councillor Malcolm Harper said he had received a number of noise complaints from people living as far away from the abbey as Wallington.

He said: "The noise can travel whichever way the wind is blowing. Last year there were a number of complaints after the blues night in July which started late because of the rain. This meant that fireworks were let off at midnight which upset a few people."

Councillor Harper said he welcomed the new pilot regulations that would help give residents some peace of mind.

The abbey started staging events eight years ago under the watchful eye of the Titchfield Abbey Association.

John Hiett, the association's chairman, explained that the abbey is applying for planning permission purely to regulate its position with the council and not to change the type of events it holds.

"We are very amenable to what local people think and if they have any problems with noise we want to hear about it.

"The abbey is here for the benefit of the whole community."

Cash collected from hiring out the abbey for events is ploughed back into the upkeep and enhancement of the site.

The scheduled ancient monument is a popular venue for many events, including fairs and wedding receptions. Raves and 18th birthday parties are forbidden.

A further condition of planning permission being granted is that Abbey Nurseries should be available for parking at main events.