If you are planning a community event it would be preferable to hold it off the highway such as in parks, public open space or playing fields (with the land owner’s permission as necessary). For more information please visit Organising a street party or fete.
But when the only suitable location is the street it will usually be necessary to close the road to create a traffic free environment then you need to apply for a Special Events Order. This is needed by law under Section 16 of the Road Traffic Regulations Act 1984 if:
- the event is on the highway and will restrict its use in any way;
- the event is off the highway but you need some restriction of the adjacent highway such as cones put out to prevent parking.
In private streets or cul-de-sacs, where there is no access to other roads and where neighbours and residents can gather easily and safely together, there should be no cost involved for applicants of road closures but you will still need to complete the Special events order application form. This process can take up to six weeks from the date the application is received.
A road closure for a through road is a more detailed process and will be more expensive as organisers have to apply for a Special Events Order which costs £40, provide a traffic plan, detailed risk assessments, public liability insurance and to arrange for a contractor to put signs up on diversion routes. This requires a minimum of three months notice.
For more information on Traffic Management companies open: Traffic Management companies for Public Road Closures (25Kb)
Apply for a Special events order
Road closures for public events are now dealt with by Suffolk County Council. More details and the application form can be found on Suffolk County Council's website Street parties and other events restricting the highway.
Temporary events notice
If you want to serve alcohol, provide entertainment to the public, or charge for the event you will need a Temporary Event notice – more details can be found on Organising a street party or fete
For details of events in your area visit www.elgin.gov.uk
