A star-studded music festival could be coming to Herne Bay seafront after it was turned down by Whitstable Harbour Board.

Events firm Rocking Festivals Ltd came before the committee this month to propose a week-long event for this September.

The plans were put forward by promoter Vince Power - who helped popularise festivals including Reading, Leeds and Benicàssim, and created the Kent-based Hop Farm Festival - alongside creative director Joanne Asquith, who runs Milk and Honey café in Whitstable.

The pair said the event could feature world-famous acts including the likes of Morrissey, Van Morrison, UB40, KT Tunstall, Tom Odell, Corinne Bailey Rae, The Pretenders, The Shires, and Toots and the Maytals.

But harbour officials rejected the plans over concerns the festival could impact fishermen and cause noise problems for residents.

Several councillors cited issues experienced in recent years, including when Whitstable Oyster Festival used the West Quay as the site of The Shuck - a hub that hosted food, drink and musical entertainment throughout the event’s 10-day duration.

The decision has been met with mixed reactions from residents, with many backing the board members’ refusal to grant permission.

Karen Conway wrote on Facebook: “As nice as it sounds, large events in Whitstable in the past have proved to be a nightmare in terms of traffic, parking, disturbances and breach of the peace. Locals get nothing out of it.”

However, in a KentOnline poll of more than 700 people, 57% said they wanted to see the music festival held on the West Quay.

One commenter wrote: “What a great opportunity for a brilliant-sounding gig in the town, bringing money, work and just a great thing. Blocked by the sounds of it by lack of ambition. If you do it somewhere else, count me in. Downright nimbyism.”

But Ms Asquith says she and Mr Power are now considering other local waterfront locations - including Herne Bay.

“We would like to thank the Harbour Board for their consideration and time,” she said. “Of course we are disappointed with the decision not to host the festival at the West Quay, but do understand priority must be given to the fishermen.

'There are several other seafront sites that we are considering within the Canterbury district' - creative director Joanne Asquith

“However, the site that we suggested was not the fishermen’s compound, but the area leased by the Whitstable Yacht Club, who had expressed a keen interest in us utilising this space.

“The response within the community has been overwhelmingly positive and we are delighted that so many local residents are behind the event.

“There are several other seafront sites that we are considering within the Canterbury district and are currently in discussion with the events team.

“We will make an announcement shortly with regards to this exciting new festival.”

The city council has confirmed it is in the process of helping the organisers find another venue.

Spokesman Leo Whitlock said: “We are happy to continue our discussions with Rocking Festivals and are actively working with them to find a suitable site within the district for them to hold their event.”