To note the consensus of the HESAG group following the meetings held on 10th March 2021, in which the complexities and challenges of holding street fairs were discussed and the relevant submitted event management plans, including covid risk assessments were scrutinised.

The unprecedented significant impact of the covid-19 outbreak is having continued ramifications across society and notably the economy.

The COVID-19 Response - Spring 2021 – Roadmap out of Lockdown suggests that outdoor attractions and settings including outdoor hospitality venues and theme parks may be able to allowed to open from 12th April 2021 at the earliest in accordance with the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (Steps)
(England) Regulations 2021 which come into force on 29 March 2021. However, any event should still be assessed on its individual circumstances with regard to public safety from a covid perspective.

Street fairs in Hereford and Leominster by their nature mean areas are relatively cramped when rides and attractions are in situ, coupled with the public in attendance also.

To hold the events at the end of April/beginning of May at a time when society is still the process of opening up, based on the government roadmap timetable, would mean that the covid related risks would be uncertain and potentially still significant.

Postponing these street fairs until later in the year would mean that the events could potentially take place if and when the covid related risks have diminished.

Each event will once again be assessed at an appropriate lead in time by the Herefordshire Event Safety Advisory Group who will make a recommendation of the suitability to hold the events.