Frequently asked questions

What to do about a resident who actively does not want the street party?

Really listen to their needs. They may have the wrong idea about the 'party'. Some people can worry about their car or of being sociable. If they cannot be reassured, offer to let them park wherever they want or even drive slowly in and out on the day. And if noise is kept low, they should have no reason to stop the majority of you going ahead. Your council should not let a single objection prevent them giving you permission, unless it is a serious practical objection.

What if it rains?

Be ready to cover things up and wait till it passes or delay your activities. Unless you are really unlucky, rain should not stop play.

What can go wrong?

An important delivery or a disabled driver has to drive in and out; be careful and let them in.
A child falls over or wanders into other roads – all adults should watch out for the children.
Someone turning music up loud. They must be stopped to prevent neighbours being disturbed.
Do not paint the street with household paints.

Why not join more streets together?

You can lose the intimacy with your neighbours and it won't be right outside everyone's house. But, as long as it is for residents only and does not become a publicised event for the wider community, it can work.

Why not hold the event in a building?

Holding it in the street outside your houses is a special place, without traffic for the day - it is more open. A lot fewer people will go into a building.

What if nobody turns up?

Don't worry, they will, even if they decide to join in on the day. It is rare that less half of the street join in. A bit of door knocking can help.

How to deal with traffic long term?

You may be having a street party to highlight traffic or parking problems. This would be part of long term working with the council. Even if you do have a problem, councils do not have much money, except for where accidents regularly happen. There are groups who can help you. See Roads and Traffic section.

Feedback

Streets Alive wants to hear your stories and so we welcome all feedback and comment on this Guide which will helps us to update it regularly. Please contact us.

Hold your street party again

Streets Alive's vision is to make street parties widespread and a regular part of life. We are doing this by promoting best practice with communities, the media and councils. See our Street Party Charter for more detail.

About Streets Alive

Streets Alive is a charitable group which promotes culturally thriving communities through traffic-free street events. This includes street parties and car free days. Our vision is to make street parties widespread and a regular part of life. We are doing this by promoting best practice with communities, the media and councils. See www.streetsalive.net

Also see our Guide for Residents