RESIDENTS have been left upset by Frinton Summer Theatre's plans to put up a big tent on the town's hallowed greensward for weeks during the summer holidays.

The popular theatre, based at the McGrigor Hall in Fourth Avenue, is thought to be the longest-running summer repertory theatre in the UK.

It usually puts on seven plays in seven weeks throughout July and August and in recent years it has hosted a musical in a big tent on Frinton Greensward for a number of days.

After a break forced by the pandemic, the big tent is set to return to the greensward this summer with a special production.

But it is understood the organisers have applied for a licence to use the greensward for three weeks.

Councillors had previously been informed it could be up to five weeks, which enraged some residents and councillors who do not want the tranquil seafront spot to be commercialised.

Frinton councillor Terry Allen, speaking against the plans, said: "They're now asking for a marquee for up to 350 people slap bang in the main holiday period.

"It will take up all the car parking spaces.

"After the first couple of days with local people seeing the show, it will be everyone from outside and will further exacerbate the parking problems we have.

"The residents who live along there know the summer is a nightmare with parking and noise - they look forward to that bit of tranquility in the evening when people go home.

"But that will go for the whole of the summer. Residents don't want it."

Resident Mick Carter, of Walton Road, said he feared the move would open the flood gates for other ventures to use the land.

He added: "The greensward is for the enjoyment of all residents and those holidaymakers who visit our town with their families to enjoy a day out at a traditional unspoilt town by the sea and not have to put up with commercial enterprises."

Clive Brill, Frinton Summer Theatre's artistic director, said many businesses and theatre-lovers in the town are backing the idea.

“It’s certainly true we applied for slightly longer this time, but it is for three weeks rather than five,” he said.

“And that will include some outreach work in the community.

“It’s true that we sell alcohol, under licence from the council, but people need to know that we are a charity – we are not making money on this.

“We have not had problems with parking before and no one has complained.

“Businesses in the town love the idea – we walked down Connaught Avenue and every business was in favour.”

A decision on whether to grant the theatre use of the greensward will be made by Tendring Council.