Oxford Open Streets 2010
FAQs
(thanks to www.streetparty.org.uk for much of the information here)
The dates in September are not suitable - does that matter?
No, events at other times of the year are to be encouraged. Holding several events at the same time makes more of an impact however.
Do I need insurance?
In practice, many small residents-only street parties do not take out Public Liability Insurance. Although such insurance can be useful for larger street parties, raising the funds for the £80+ premium can put some residents off organising an event.
The risks at most street parties are usuall low and so the risk of liability to organisers and councils is low. Planning a safe event is the best way of reducing risks. Carry out a risk assessment: think about minimising any risks from electricity, accident, burns, damage, rain, breakages etc. Agree in advance that everyone should take responsibility for themselves and watch out for each other, especially children - you might say this on your invitation.
Do I need a licence?
You should not need to apply to your council for a Temporary Event Notice licence if any 'performance' is 'incidental' to the day or 'background', including recorded music. If you have a programme of bands etc. you would need to apply for one. You would need a full licence to sell alcohol or food etc. For further information visit Oxford City Council’s Temporary Licence web page or, contact Julian Alison, Oxford City Council - 01865 252565 or jalison@oxford.gov.uk
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'. 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.
What can go wrong?
- Someone needs 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 children.
- Someone turning music up loud. They must be stopped to prevent neighbours being disturbed.
- Marking to the road - do not paint the street with household paints. Chalk is good.
What activities could I arrange?
The basics are:
- Food to share at fixed time(s) so you can all rub shoulders;
- Music for some time, especially live acoustic, but not too loud and finish early;
- Decorate the street e.g. with bunting - put it up early to get things going;
- Soft areas to sit - try a lounge with sofa and carpet for any toddlers;
- Focus activities together over a short time and in the middle part of the street.
- Games for all ages.
More Ideas for Activities
- Cake/biscuit/pudding competition
- Raffle to raise money for the day or charity
- Bring & Buy / swap table or auction
- Tug of war
- Celebrate / birthday of oldest person
- Stories or photos from 50 years ago in the street
- Take a photo record of every household
- Best front garden / decorated front of houses
- Chalk drawing (but no house paint)
- Guess-my-house-number game
- Hire bouncy castle (you will have to mind it)
- Football, basketball, skittles, swing ball
- Dancing - any sort, adults or teenage display
- Cycle course competition
- Survey or petition on local issue
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