Visitors and residents in Cowes should prepare for temporary evening road closures during Cowes Week.
The closures will be in place each evening from 6pm to 1am throughout the event.
Responding to safety concerns
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police has raised concerns about the number of pedestrians and vehicles sharing busy streets during peak times.
In response, the Isle of Wight Council is implementing the closures as a precaution, aiming to prevent accidents and improve public safety.
Details of the closures
The following roads will be affected:
- Terminus Road will be closed from the Carvel Lane junction. Residents, buses, taxis and Red Jet customers may still access the area up to the Carvel Lane/M&S junction.
- High Street will be closed to all traffic at both the Red Jet and Market Hill ends.
- Market Hill (bottom section) and Bath Road will be closed to all vehicles.
- Market Hill will operate as a two-way road to help residents leave Castle Road.
- The Parade will be closed to vehicles. Residents can access the area on foot.
- Red Jet Terminal will not be accessible by car between 6pm and 1am. Drop-offs must take place at the Terminus Road/Carvel Lane junction or at the Carvel Lane taxi rank.
Proactive approach to existing powers
These powers already exist under the Cowes Week Temporary Traffic Regulation Order (TTRO).
However, this year the council is using them more proactively to manage the increased risks identified by police.
The council will review the closures daily and make adjustments if needed to ensure they remain suitable.
Council supports police advice
Michelle Love, the council’s service director for highways and community protection, said:
“We know these closures will be inconvenient for some, but the safety of residents and visitors must come first.
“The police have made it clear that the risk to pedestrians is increasing, and we are acting on their advice to prevent serious incidents.”
Advice to plan ahead
Cowes Week runs from Saturday 2nd August to Friday 8th August.
The council advises all visitors and residents to plan ahead and allow more time for travel during the affected hours.
