The Big Lunch on June 5 is a nationwide initiative designed to encourage people to get to know their neighbours and build strong communities. This is the third year the event has been held.

Mayor of London Boris Johnson says: "Londoners whole-heartedly embraced street parties to celebrate the Royal Wedding so why not make a get-together with your neighbours a more regular event?"

Wandsworth is keen to encourage people to hold street parties and has slashed fees and red tape. This led to the borough hosting the second highest number of Royal Wedding street parties in London - and more than the whole of York , Southampton, Oxford , Manchester and Liverpool put together.

Party organisers need to tell Wandsworth Council if they are planning a street party and want a road closed. The flat-rate fee of £50 goes towards the costs of drawing up the legal notices and the other costs associated with a road closure.

Residents are also being advised to alert their local police safer neighbourhood team. Find your local team at www.wandsworth.gov.uk/snt.

The council has developed a step-by-step guide to organising a street party, which includes a road closure application form. Go to www.wandsworth.gov.uk/streetparties.

You can also speak to a member of the council's technical services department on (020) 8871 6712.

Find out more about the Big Lunch at www.thebiglunch.com.

 

May 20, 2011