Bath and North East Somerset Council are taking the opportunity to remind event organisers of the need to plan well ahead with them to make local events a success.
The Council supports hundreds of community events across the area every year; from street parties, to music festivals, carnivals and Remembrance Parades, their events team supports with advice, information on any permissions required and much more.
“We work with event organisers to help ensure they can run successful and safe events,” says Elspeth Hinde from the events team. “To make sure we get it right, it’s really important that we work together to plan ahead.
“For instance if events need road closures we need to know about this at least eight weeks in advance.
“This gives us time to put in place traffic regulations, such as road closure notices and parking restriction orders, halt any road works that may be planned on the route, or to signpost any diversions.”
The Safety Advisory Group for Events (SAGE) includes officers from Bath & North East Somerset Council, Avon Fire & Rescue, Avon & Somerset Police, and South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust.
Its role is to ensure that major events in the area run smoothly and safely and that plans are put in place to protect people’s safety, particularly in the case of emergencies.
Councillor David Dixon (Lib-Dem, Oldfield), the Council’s Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “Community events are so important socially and economically.
“We are committed to working with local people who have so much pride in the neighbourhoods in which they live.
“If you’re planning an event please get in touch with the team as early as you can – they can help and advise you on what needs to be done.”
Keynsham Town Council Deputy Town Clerk, Dawn Drury, added: “Planning and producing a successful event is not a difficult task, if you follow a methodical process.
“Keynsham Town Council has a tried and tested approach and manages several events each year including the Winter Festival and the Music Festival – in conjunction with Keynsham Music Festival Association Limited.
“Planning ahead is essential. For Keynsham Winter Festival, we start in June for an event in November and the Music Festival is planned a whole year in advance.
“We apply for licences early and check that we have all the necessary permissions in place. Collaborative working with Bath & North East Somerset Council is essential, and the events team is always on hand to answer any queries and support us through the process.”
If you’re planning an event take a look at the Council’s event toolkit www.bathnes.gov.uk/eventstoolkit or Frequently Asked Questions page www.bathnes.gov.uk/eventsFAQs. You can also call 01225 396181.
