The Reform UK Member of Parliament for Romford, Andrew Rosindell, has stepped in over concerns that this year’s St George’s Day Scout parade in Havering could be cancelled due to the whopping £9K cost of traffic management.
In a sharply critical letter to the Leader of Havering London Borough Council, Ray Morgon, Mr Rosindell questioned why a short community parade could face costs reportedly in the region of £9,000 to put in place a traffic management plan.
The possible cancellation of the parade has sparked concern across the borough. The annual St George’s Day event, traditionally involving local Scouts, has long been seen as an important community celebration.
In his letter, Mr Rosindell wrote:
“Can I ask why it is necessary to impose a ‘traffic management plan’ at such huge cost for a short parade for our local Scouts for St. George’s Day?
Why can’t volunteers do this job? I am sure the Romford Scouts could find people to do this and ensure the safety of their members.”
Mr Rosindell has also questioned why police are not supporting the event and clearly stated he will raise this matter in Parliament.
He also added:
“However, Havering Council must surely show flexibility and find a solution to this, without the Scouts having to pay vast costs or cancel their parade.
A £9,000 charge for a 20-minute parade is completely unnecessary and disproportionate.
I hope you will reconsider this situation, as there is a lot of anger about this decision, myself included.”
Thank you for your urgent attention to this matter.”
Mr Rosindell has now said he intends to raise the matter in Parliament, arguing that the costs involved risk preventing a long standing community tradition from taking place.
The situation has prompted debate locally about how community parades and traditional events can continue while meeting legal and safety requirements for road management.
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