Leicestershire County Council is inviting local communities to apply for free road closures to host street parties in celebration of the 80th anniversary of VE Day this May.
The significant anniversary, marking the end of World War II in Europe, falls on Thursday, 8 May, and celebrations will take place nationwide from Thursday, 8 May to Sunday, 11 May.
Picture: Ozzy O’Shea
Typically, there is a fee associated with closing roads for events, but the council is waiving this cost to support local communities and groups wishing to organize events.
The usual cost for a temporary traffic order, which includes road closures for events held on public roads, ranges from £400 to £650.
The deadline to apply for a free road closure to host a VE Day celebration is Friday, 21 March.
Councillor Ozzy O’Shea, cabinet member for highways, commented: “The 80th anniversary of VE Day is a landmark event for both the nation and Leicestershire. We want to support communities in celebrating this historic occasion and encourage people to come together. That’s why we’re waiving road closure fees. However, if you’re planning an event like a street party, please make sure to inform us in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements.”
Additionally, the council is offering free loans of signs and cones to event organizers, which must be collected and returned to the Mountsorrel Highways Depot. These items must also be requested by the 21 March deadline, as availability cannot be guaranteed beyond that date.
For guidance on organizing an event and to submit a road closure application, visit www.leicestershire.gov.uk/plan-an-event or email eventsnetworkmanagement@leics.gov.uk.
