Kate ScotterOrganisers of one of the country's oldest festivals have revealed what festival-goers can look forward to as once again they plan to take over a city centre park.Norfolk and Norwich Festival official siteKate Scotter

Organisers of one of the country's oldest festivals have revealed what festival-goers can look forward to as once again they plan to take over a city park.

New highlights of the Norwich and Norfolk Festival include the El Laberint maze, a big-top tent called Circus Ronaldo and a carousel for children, all due to go in Chapelfield Gardens.

El Laberint is an open-air, see-through maze through which people of all ages can find their way.

News of the attractions comes as organisers seek consent from Norwich City Council to sell alcohol and play live and recorded music at the park as part of the festival, running from May 7-22. It is hoped to sell alcohol at a beer tent until 1am from Monday to Thursday during the festival; until 2am on the Fridays and Saturdays; and until midnight on Sundays. Organisers also hope to be able to play music and have dance events at these times.

Papers going before the council's licensing committee on Thursday show that some neighbours have raised objections. Concerns raised include that the serving hours seem too late and may lead to noise and disturbance. Organisers, however, say they are confident these issues have been overcome and that three of the five original letters of objection have been retracted.

Jonathan Holloway, artistic director of the festival, said: "We take the security and safety of our audiences very seriously, and it is not our intention to cause unnecessary disruption to local residents. While, naturally, we are disappointed to receive a small number of objections to the licence application for Chapelfield Gardens, we will do everything we can to allay people's concerns and are responding swiftly and specifically to all involved. Three of the original five objections have been fully retracted.

"Norfolk and Norwich Festival brings 16 days of vibrancy and celebration to the city each May, and I will work hard to ensure that more people than ever are able to join in and enjoy it this year."

Last year's festival attracted an estimated 63,000 people.

� Look out for latest news about the Norfolk and Norwich Festival in the Evening News and our Going Out section.

� Are you staging a community event? Call reporter Kate Scotter on 01603 772326; email kate.scotter@archant.co.uk

Norfolk and Norwich Festival official site