Council Opens Way for Street Party Road Closures

THE coronation of Charles III on Saturday, May 6, is predicted to be a very different ceremony to the one that took place for his mother 70 years ago.

Yet, one key feature will remain the same – street parties – which this year form part of the Coronation Big Lunch, a nationwide event in which millions of people will be celebrating the new King and Queen.

Big lunches come in all shapes and sizes, but the essentials are unchanged. Just as in 1953, communities will be coming together to put up the bunting, prepare the sandwiches, cakes and jelly, and raise a toast to the health and long life of the new monarch.

To make big-lunch organisation as easy as possible, the council has simplified the process for closing roads. There’s no cost involved and a guide has been launched featuring organisational tips as well as ideas for games and quizzes to make sure it’s a success.

Cllr Sangita Patel, Tameside Council’s executive member for culture and heritage, said: “There’s nothing like a street party when it comes to celebrating a royal landmark. So few of us have memories of the last coronation, which took place a lifetime ago, that I’m sure May’s events are going to be extra special.

“Street parties are a brilliant way to raise community spirit and that certainly proved to be the case for last year’s platinum jubilee when there were no fewer than 39 across Tameside. They offer the perfect opportunity to bring everyone together in happy surroundings and are especially good for those who live alone.

“Our simple procedure makes it easy for residents to close their roads. I hope lots and lots of them will get involved in this truly historic celebration as we welcome our new king and queen.”

The street party guide is available online at www.tameside.gov.uk/streetparties or can be sent to you if you call 0780 300 6172. The deadline to apply to close your road for the Coronation is Monday, April 10.