Road Closures Expected as Bridgwater Carnival Commences

Europe’s largest illuminated procession, the Bridgwater carnival, is set to begin tomorrow, November 2nd, this weekend, bringing with it road closures throughout the town. As the United Kingdom’s oldest carnival, it is anticipated to attract thousands of spectators, necessitating these traffic adjustments. Chris Hocking, projects officer at Bridgwater carnival, remarked: “It’s really amazing that such a small market town can host such a magnificent carnival and it puts the town and the county on the map.” The west country carnival circuit is an annual celebration, typically observed around Bonfire Night, with its historical roots dating back to the gunpowder plot of 1605. The Bridgwater procession will commence at 18:00 GMT on 2 November, although individuals are expected to begin lining up from 10:00. The route will extend from Bath Road, passing through the town, and concluding at Northgate by 20:00. Mr Hocking added: “The traffic management team will be putting out signs and making sure the traffic arrangements are in place, making sure all the car parks are signed as well.” Several road closures will be implemented throughout the day. Cornhill, High Street, Lamb Lane, and Clare Street are scheduled to close from 08:00 GMT. Parkway will then be closed from 09:00 GMT, followed by Knowle Road and Trevor Road closing at noon. From 13:00 to 13:30 GMT, Broadway will be closed between Salmon Parade and Eastover, and Monmouth Street will be closed from Broadway to Cross Rifles. Further closures will take effect from 16:00 GMT, impacting Bath Road from Kingsdown to Cross Rifles, Monmouth Street, Broadway from Monmouth Street to Taunton Road, Taunton Road from Broadway to St Mary Street, St Mary Street, Cornhill, High Street, Penel Orlieu, Mount Street Northgate, The Clink, East Quay, and Wylds Road Bristol Road from The Drove to Cross Rifles. Park and ride services will be available from Dunball and from junction 24 off the M5 motorway. Buses will transport attendees into the town and return them to their vehicles at the conclusion of the evening. Car parks in Bridgwater at St Matthew’s Field, West Street, and Bridgwater and Taunton College will open at 10:30 GMT. For updates, follow BBC Somerset on Facebook and X. Story ideas can be sent via email or WhatsApp to 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external sites. Information regarding our approach to external linking is available.