'Park Responsibly' – Council warning to folk festival fringe visitors

The Sidmouth Folk Festival official event is not taking place this year due to the coronavirus pandemic. While a limited number of fringe events may still occur in the town, Devon County Council is reminding anyone visiting to park responsibly.

With no official event being held other than an online festival, the county council has confirmed the usual traffic management plans and temporary traffic regulation order, will not be in place. Civil enforcement officers will be patrolling in the town and surrounding areas to ensure existing parking restrictions are observed.

Some areas in the town and local venues may attract visitors who are strongly advised to act responsibly and follow Government guidelines on social distancing and the use of face coverings.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highway Management and local County Councillor for Sidmouth, said: "Because this year's Sidmouth Folk Festival isn't going ahead the usual facilities aren't being laid on by the organisers, such as transport from campsites to the town. Some of the local campsites and overflow car parking areas also won't be opening up.

"Without the official event taking place, the normal temporary traffic management arrangements won't be in place, but there's no telling how many people could turn up for any unofficial fringe performances that may occur on the esplanade or in local pubs.

"Of course we want visitors to the town, but we also need them to ensure they park responsibly and don't cause unnecessary obstructions which could prevent access of emergency services and other vehicles."