This year marks the 80th Anniversary of VE Day, commemorating the end of World War II in Europe and celebrating the peace and freedom secured by those who served and sacrificed.
To honour this historic occasion, communities across Bedford Borough are encouraged to come together and celebrate with street parties on Monday 5 May.
To mark this day of shared commemoration, we will be raising the Flag at Borough Hall and lighting the Corn Exchange red, white and blue in the evening.
To support residents in hosting their own VE Day street party, Bedford Borough Council is waiving the usual administration fee for street party road closures. Street parties provide a fantastic opportunity for neighbours, friends, and families to unite, celebrate, and remember this milestone in British history.
How to apply for a road closure
The Council has made it easier than ever to organise a community street party by offering free road closures and practical guidance. Residents wishing to hold a street party are asked to submit their applications by Friday 18 April.
Please email road.closures@bedford.gov.uk to apply including the date, times and road details along with an emergency contact.
Please note: The waiving of street party fees applies to residents of residential streets only and does not apply to commercial traders or high street closures.
FAQs
How will I know that my application for a street closure has been accepted?
We will email confirmation to the event organisers.
Can family members attend my street party?
The ethos of the street parties is that it is for neighbours to come together, but no one will be checking if extended families are in attendance.
What do I do if someone on my street does not want us to have the street party?
We recommend that you talk to them to find out why they do not want the party and see if there is a way to compromise. One objection will not put a stop to the street party.
Can we do a charity collection at the street party? If so, do we need a collection licence and where do we get one from?
Please see our information about collection licences.
What should I do if someone tried to attend who does not live on my street and has not been invited?
Speak to them and explain it is a street party for your street only. If you are able to include them then you may choose to do so. If they are causing a nuisance do not put yourself in a confrontational situation, call the police.
Can an ice cream van to stop at the street party?
Yes, as long as they have the correct licences.
We are planning to have a small street party on a green area so should not need to close a road. Do we still need to get permission from you?
Yes, you will still need to get permission so we can make sure it does not clash with any other activities and so we have a contact for the event in case there are any problems. Follow the same procedure for street parties. Please ensure you tidy up after the event and check the grass for broken glass or other hazards before setting up.
Can we decorate our street, including lampposts, with bunting on the day of the party?
Yes. Please remove them at the end of the day.
How do we show our street is closed?
You will need a road-closed sign and barrier across the road eg a table. Further guidance on road closure etiquette will be available after we receive your email.
When and where do we collect ‘street closed’ signs from?
We are creating a limited number of road-closed signs that will be ready for collection at reception at Bedford Borough Hall on a first come first served basis from Monday 28 April.
What time can people close the road from?
Unless told otherwise, please assume that you can close the road you are having the party on between the times you requested when you applied.