We only tend to see the emergence of local street parties when there’s a monumental celebration for the British Royal Family, but this September, Merton Council are encouraging us to reclaim our streets and host our very own street parties to celebrate World Car Free Day 2019.

On Sunday 22nd September, the Mayor of London is encouraging all Londoners to partake in the cities hundreds of car-free ‘Reimagine’ events which will allow us to reimagine London as a car-free city and explore its beauty without our vehicles. Whilst this day will bring closures to more than 20km of streets in Central London so that we can all enjoy the hundreds of free events on offer, eighteen London boroughs including Merton are hoping to bring the car-free celebrations a lot closer to home.

In Merton, the council will be waiving the fees for temporary street closures to enable children in Merton to play on the streets safely and bring our local communities together. Most would agree that London life can get rather hectic, so it can be difficult to socialise with friends and family let alone our neighbours. This fantastic opportunity will give us the chance to come together as a street, a community and a borough to enjoy car-free activities and celebrate clean air.

You only have until 30th August to apply so don’t delay with your applications and do check out our How to Set Up Your Own Community Event blog from last Summer for some street party inspiration. For more information on the application process, visit the Merton Council website here and find out more about the planned events across London here.

P.S. Do send us in your photos and let us know what you’re doing if you choose to throw a street party or host a Play Street on a street near you.

Written by Genevieve Etienne-Farrell