Over 100 streets apply to hold celebrations
MORE than 100 streets across Leicestershire have so far applied to hold celebrations to mark The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
Leicestershire County Council has received 113 applications for road closures to allow parties to mark Elizabeth II’s 70-year reign.
Besides street parties, a wide array of other events will be held, including garden fetes, community picnics, local fairs, and music events.
Most of the events are planned during the extended bank holiday weekend from Thursday, June 2 to Sunday, June 5.
Residents have two weeks left to ask to close their road for a street party and applications must be submitted by Friday, April 15.
Any application received after that date will not be processed.
The usual fees have been waived by the county council for road closures making it cheaper for residents to get together to mark this special occasion. Anyone who wants to apply to close their road for a Platinum Jubilee street party can apply for free through the council’s website.
Lord Lieutenant of Leicestershire Mike Kapur said: “I’m delighted that more than 100 street parties are being planned across the county to mark this historic occasion.
“On top of that, the fetes and garden parties show that Leicestershire is really getting ready to embrace the Platinum Jubilee weekend.
“Although the deadline is fast approaching, there is still time to apply to close a road and come together with neighbours to celebrate.
“Guidance is available on our website for anyone who is thinking about planning a street party but doesn’t know where to start.
Mr Kapur added: “There are many local celebratory initiatives people can take part in, from a primary school art competition to nominating a business or community group for a Platinum Jubilee Award. I would encourage people to visit our website to find out how they can get involved.”
Information about organising an event on council owned land or green spaces and guidance about licensable activities such as playing music and selling food and drink can also be found on the council’s website.
Council officials are asking anyone planning outdoor events, even if a road closure is not required, to notify them to ensure they do not clash with other planned work, such as road maintenance.
The council is eager to learn about all the events and activities that are taking place in Leicestershire, and residents can add information about their event or activity to an interactive map on the council’s website.
To apply to close a road for a street party and for more information about the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, visit: www.leicestershire.gov.uk/platinumjubilee.