Jubilee street parties could cause havoc for drivers, says Green Flag

Drivers are being warned to expect congestion during the Platinum Jubilee weekend as an estimated 133,000 UK roads will be inaccessible due to street parties.

A poll of 2,000 UK adults commissioned by breakdown rescue firm Green Flag indicated that 8% of people live on a road hosting a council-approved street party over the four-day bank holiday weekend.

A further 7% of respondents said their road is planning an unofficial party.

Green Flag said the results of the survey, shared with the PA news agency, suggested that access to 133,000 roads could be restricted at some point over the long weekend, which runs from Thursday June 2 to Sunday June 5.

The Friday is expected to be the most popular day for street parties (35% of those planned), followed by the Saturday (25%), Thursday (15%) and Sunday (12%).

Some 13% of people did not know what day the Jubilee party on their road will take place when the survey was conducted between April 29 and May 3.

Green Flag, which estimated that five million people will be embarking on a holiday or day trip over that period, warned that the parties “could cause havoc for drivers”.

The company’s commercial director, Mark Newberry, said: “The extra day off means many of us will be planning trips away to make the most of the four-day weekend.

“We want to ensure everyone can enjoy the celebrations without any added stress or complications, so we’re urging drivers to check their route for any road closures and be aware of any obstructions or pedestrians that may be in the street.

“Drivers should make sure they are road trip ready by thoroughly checking their vehicle before setting off, and preparing themselves in case a breakdown does happen.”