Street parties, 2016.

Royal Wedding Street Party, Lavenham 2011.

I was somewhat disconcerted to hear the Cabinet Member for Highways suggesting last week that it would be a good idea for communities wishing to hold a street party to think about holding the event 'elsewhere'. (i.e. not in the street.)

I fear that this is a 'demand reducing' cost saving measure.  Holding a street party involves applying to the council for a Road Traffic Order enabling the street to be closed.  This, as with everything to do with government,  is complex and time consuming for officers.

But how can one hold a street party anywhere else but in the street?  'Street party' is what it says on the tin, and, although James Finch is an excellent person, I hope that his suggestion will be ignored.

Street parties are of special importance this year since many communities are gearing up to celebrate the 90th birthday of  Her Majesty the Queen in June.

I hope that those who usually hold street parties on such occasions carry on and do so, but I would advise organisers to apply early to avoid the rush and ease the burden on County Highways!