Be warned, if you want to get about next weekend (July 20 & 21), it might be an idea to leave the car at home.

Source : https://bedfordshiretimes.co.uk/brook-cottages-dismantled-a1-revamp-wyboston-2/

Introduction

Dear Readers,

The highly anticipated Bedford River Festival is upon us, promising a weekend filled with fun, music, and merriment. However, such large-scale community events come with their own set of challenges regarding transportation and mobility. To ensure that the festival runs smoothly and safely, several road closures have been planned for the duration of the event. As your trusted news source, we aim to keep you well-informed so that you can plan your weekend accordingly.

Key Road Closures and Restrictions

The Bedford Borough Council has announced a series of road closures to accommodate the festival's extensive program of activities and to ensure the safety of all attendees:

Embankment Road: This road will be completely closed from Friday evening to late Sunday night to facilitate the main events along the river. Vehicle access will be strictly prohibited.

High Street: Only limited access will be allowed, primarily for emergency services and residents. All other vehicles will need to find alternative routes.

St Mary's Street: This road will also see significant restrictions. While pedestrian access will be maintained, vehicular traffic will be diverted.

Longholme Way: Closed throughout the weekend, this route forms part of the main pedestrian thoroughfare for festival-goers.

Alternative Routes and Transportation Advice

With these closures in place, it is highly advisable for residents and visitors alike to leave their cars at home and make use of public transport or bicycles instead. Here are some recommendations to help you navigate the festival weekend:

Buses: Local bus services will be running additional routes and extended hours to accommodate the increased demand. Make sure to check the updated schedules in advance.

Park and Ride: The Council has also arranged for a Park and Ride service from key locations on the outskirts of Bedford. This service will provide frequent shuttles to and from the festival at nominal rates.

Bicycles: Given the expected congestion, bicycles are an excellent alternative mode of transport. Bike racks will be available at multiple points around the festival area.

Parking Facilities

For those who must drive, parking facilities will be extremely limited and are likely to fill up quickly. We recommend arriving early and considering off-site parking options:

Multi-storey Car Parks: These will remain open but expect them to be fuller than usual. Plan for additional time to find a parking spot.

Residential Parking: Be mindful of residents' needs and avoid parking in restricted zones. Violators may face fines or towing.

Conclusion

We understand that road closures can be inconvenient, but they are essential for ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all who attend the Bedford River Festival. We encourage everyone to plan ahead and consider alternative modes of transport. The spirit of the festival lies not just in its wonderful array of events, but also in the community’s collective effort to make it a success. Enjoy the festival, stay safe, and let’s make this weekend one to remember!