Platinum Jubilee: Stay alert for street party road closures
Motorists are being advised to take extra care while driving in UK cities, towns and villages and anticipate road closures for street parties during the forthcoming Platinum Jubilee weekend.
The deadline for residents to inform their local council about wanting to hold a street party is imminent – and in some cases as already passed. And the experts at LeaseElectricCar.co.uk are reminding drivers to be alert for temporary road closures.
Shutterstock images: Platinum Jubilee street parties will require many temporary road closures
The Government recommended organisers inform local authorities between four and 12 weeks in advance of their event ahead of the extended Bank Holiday at the start of June.
It is anticipated thousands of parties will be taking place across the UK to celebrate the Queen’s 70 year reign on the throne. More than ten million people are set to enjoy street parties nationwide.
A spokesperson for LeaseElectricCar.co.uk said: “With four days of festivities to look forward to across the country, countless street parties will be taking place on different days, at different times and in different places.
“Motorists should take extra time on their journey to account for unexpected road closures during their journey and anticipate the potential need to find an alternative route. People will be rightly celebrating this wonderful royal occasion, so giving yourself more time to reach your destination will help reduce stress and unforeseen route changes and help keep everyone safe.”
Residents up and down the country are currently liaising with local authorities for temporary road closures involving street signs and barriers. Many councils may also choose to generate a map on their website highlighting where and when parties are taking place.
There is much planning which takes place with councils needing to know the details of each street party in their area, which section of the road needs closing, whether the road is part of a bus route or used by through traffic, whether neighbours have been consulted and if any properties or businesses will be affected.
If a smaller event is planned, local residents may not need to inform the council about what is taking place. If you live in a cul-de-sac, for example, some councils waive the need for a formal road closure.
The Government says small-scale events can be classed as an informal Street Meet, where people can have a get-together on a driveway, parking area or front garden, but must make sure children are safely away from any vehicles.
Organisers must also ensure other pedestrians are not obstructed or that people attempt to wander into the road during the get-together.