NEIGHBOURHOODS in Reading are being invited again to break out the lawn chairs and cupcakes this summer.
Reading Borough Council has announced that is once more lifting road closure fees over four weekends later in the year as part of a national initiative.
The Big Lunch is the UK’s annual celebration of community and is taking place this year on the weekend of 5-8 June. However, the Council is increasing the opportunity for neighbours to host a street party by extending the offer of a ‘no charge’ road closure to four weekends.
Fees will be waived on the weekends of June 6-7, July 4-5, July 11-12, and July 18-19.
Neighbours wishing to host a street party on one of those weekends will need to apply for permission from the Council to close the road by Monday, April 20.
Approval will normally be given as long as the closure does not affect a main through-route or a public transport route.
Applicants will need to consult with their neighbours and take any concerns into account.
They will also be responsible for ensuring emergency services can access a road if required on the day.
Cllr John Ennis, Lead Councillor for Climate Strategy and Transport, said: “This is a great opportunity for neighbours to get-together and spend some time catching up with each other and meeting new people.
“It can be difficult to keep in touch with your neighbours when everyone is so busy in their day-to-day lives, so this is a welcome opportunity to relax, share some food and enjoy some time together.
“The council is happy to support this by waiving the fees that would normally be payable for arranging a road closure and giving residents the option of four weekends.
“I hope many neighbours take advantage of this opportunity and host some amazing street parties right across Reading this summer.”
Applications can be made by emailing: events@reading.gov.uk by Monday, April 20.
