Event Planning and Safety Advisory Group

If you wish to apply to hold an event in any of our parks, public roads, or spaces, this must be done online using the step-by-step EventApp Planning Toolkit. Before you apply, you may wish to read our 'Organising Events - Can Do Guide'.

Our Safety Advisory Group (SAG) works with event organisers to ensure their events are as safe as possible. SAGs are purely advisory and cannot prevent an event from taking place. However, should an organiser ignore or go against the advice given by the SAG, further action may be taken by the member agencies acting within their own legal jurisdiction.

The Safety Advisory Group would like to know about your event if:

• you are holding it on council land.
• the event requires a licence, such as for the sale of alcohol, music, or road closure.
• it involves many people.
• it contains an element of risk or is of an unusual nature.

You should notify the Safety Advisory Group as early as possible, but allow at least twelve weeks' notice in case a Tunbridge Wells Safety Advisory Group meeting is required. The necessary safety provisions will be discussed, along with whether you may need to apply for a temporary road closure or other licences and permissions.

Street parties and fetes are a traditional part of community life. Everyone on your street can join in, and it's a great way to get to know your neighbours. Residents wishing to hold a street party can read guidance for organising a street party on the GOV.UK website.

The government has produced a community guide setting out a few simple measures to help you celebrate with bonfires and fireworks safely. It includes safety tips for hosting and enjoying your own safe fireworks party, having a safe bonfire, and what to consider if you are attending an organised fireworks display.

It is compulsory to comply with all necessary health, safety, and licensing requirements. For guidance on event planning, management, and key health, safety, and licensing requirements, please visit the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) website.

The HSE has published revised guidance for the operators of inflatable equipment. The revised inflatables guidance can be found on the HSE website.

If you have any questions regarding organising an event in Tunbridge Wells or wish to hold an event in one of our parks, please email events@tunbridgewells.gov.uk.

Please use our EventApp to tell us about your event. You'll also find helpful documents to assist you in planning your event.

Road Closures

When deciding which road closure is most appropriate for your event, you must consider the following:

• the type of event you are holding.
• the duration of the closure.
• the types of roads you will be closing.
• the number of roads you wish to close.

You will need to provide the following documents with your application:

• risk assessment.
• traffic management plan.
• signage schedule showing what signs will be placed and where.
• diversion plan (if applicable).
• details of your chosen traffic management company.
• public liability insurance certificate.

The following table can help you decide what road closure you need and how to make an application: