Rutland Council Backs Communities Marking 80th Anniversary of VE Day
Rutland County Council is extending its support to local communities eager to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE Day) on Thursday, May 8th, 2025. This significant milestone offers a valuable opportunity for residents across the UK to come together and honour the brave men and women of the Second World War generation through local events and activities.
Recognising that many communities may wish to hold traditional street parties to mark this historic occasion, Rutland County Council is facilitating temporary road closures to enable these celebrations. Residents planning such events are encouraged to contact the Council's Highways department by calling 01572 722 577 to discuss their requirements.
To ensure the safety and smooth operation of any road closures, the Council is requesting that communities notify them of their plans by midday on Thursday, April 17th. This early notification will allow sufficient time for the Council to assess any potential safety implications or other impacts, and to advertise the necessary closures in accordance with legal requirements. Notably, the Council has announced that applications for road closures on Sunday, May 4th, and Monday, May 5th, which do not necessitate diversions, will not incur a charge.
Councillor Christine Wise, Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Communities at Rutland County Council, emphasized the importance of the anniversary: "80 years on from the end of the Second World War in Europe, many of us are still humbled by the tremendous sacrifices that were made by countless people throughout the conflict. We know our communities will want to join together to show their respect and appreciation, and mark this historic occasion."
Councillor Wise also highlighted the Council's commitment to supporting these commemorations while ensuring minimal disruption: "If you can hold parties in gardens or public spaces, rather than on the highway, this helps to reduce disruption for emergency services and people who still need to work. Where a temporary closure is needed so an event can take place, please get in touch with us so we can put all the necessary measures in place – particularly when it comes to matters of safety.”
The Council has pledged to discuss specific requirements with event organisers upon receiving their applications. As part of the application process, communities are asked to carefully consider how they will manage any traffic resulting from their road closure, as well as practical aspects such as the timely removal of furniture or equipment from the highway once their event concludes.
It is crucial for communities to adhere to the deadline of midday on Thursday, April 17th, to allow the Council the necessary time to legally advertise the road closure order. Unfortunately, any applications received after this date cannot be granted due to the statutory timeframe required for such orders.
Furthermore, the Council has specified that closures can only be approved for a single day and that applications should not be submitted for A, B, or C roads, as these would necessitate the implementation of fully signposted diversion routes.
For more detailed information and guidance regarding road closures for VE Day commemorations, residents are encouraged to visit the Rutland County Council website at www.rutland.gov.uk/highways.
Rutland County Council's proactive approach aims to empower local communities to appropriately and safely mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, ensuring a fitting tribute to a pivotal moment in history and the individuals who shaped it.
