Free road closures for coronation street parties

RESIDENTS wanting to hold a right royal knees up to celebrate the King’s coronation are being asked to apply to the council for road closure permission for street parties.

As with previous royal occasions, Wokingham Borough Council is waiving road closure fees for people wanting to hold an event over the coronation bank holiday weekend of May 6, 7, and 8.

Normally, residents and community groups have to pay for the signs, diversion routes and admin needed, but to make the most of Charles III’s big moment, this fee is being dropped.

The nation hasn’t held a coronation celebration since 1953, when trestle tables festooned with jellies, sandwiches and cups of tea filled the streets. However, there have been parties for royal weddings and the late Queen’s numerous jubilees, including last year’s big celebration.

Now it’s time for a new chapter, and the council hopes neighbours will team up to hold a gathering during the threeday weekend.

Wokingham Borough Council’s executive member for active travel, transport and highways, Cllr Paul Fishwick, said: “We know that many borough residents will be celebrating the coronation and we are pleased to confirm that we will be allowing people to apply for a free road closure.

“The coronation will be a memorable and historic occasion and we are encouraging as many residents and communities to get together to host street parties and events, put out some bunting and celebrate the coronation of King Charles III.”

Downing Street confirmed an extra Bank Holiday on Monday 8 May.

To apply for a road closure, residents need to apply using a form on the council’s website, www.wokingham. gov.uk.

The closing date is Sunday, April 16.