Fears killjoy councils may spoil King Charles’ coronation as Brits face mountains of red tape for bank holiday parties
FEARS are mounting that the King's coronation could be ruined by killjoy councils placing red tape in the way of bank holiday parties.
New advice from Whitehall has accused local authorities of micromanaging and encouraged Brits planning street parties to challenge petty decisions.
Some councils are placing severe restrictions on public celebrations, including requiring everyone on the street to agree to the party and charging up to £147 for road closures.
A total of ten 'killjoy' councils have been identified in a report by as enforcing rules that go against official advice from central government.
For example, New Forest District Council requires agreement from everyone on the street in question, while Guildford Borough Council said: "The Council reserves the right to refuse an application if there are objections which the Council considers to be valid and cannot be resolved."
Similarly Epping Forest District Council has sent organisers an extensive list of food safety tips and warned against the potential for "criminal and terrorist activity".
READ MORE ON THE CORONATION
Other council demands include a ban on releasing balloons or lanterns in Southend on Sea, , and a refusal to shut full roads for parties in Bexley, South East .
Perhaps the most restrictive measures come from Swindon Borough Council, who have asked residents not to gather in streets, which they consider to be "highways", and advised them to meet in parks or gardens instead.
Ministers have been so concerned by the restrictions that officials have issued 'myth-busting' guidance to warn against disproportionate rules being put in place.
This includes advice that there is no legal requirement for a fee to be charged for road closures nor for a licence to be granted beforehand.
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The guidance adds that councils should take a "light touch approach" to restrictions.
Gerald Vernon-Jackson, a senior figure in the Local Government Association, which represents councils in Britain, defended the measures.
He said: "Councils need to balance supporting as many residents as possible while ensuring events that do take place are set up and run safely.
"Where people want to have street parties, councils want people to be able to enjoy these safely."
