We are aware that a travelling funfair will be returning to the old Western National bus depot at Prince Rock later this week.
We have been working with the operator who have cooperated fully and shared with us their comprehensive plans on safety, both in terms of Covid-19, but also on traffic and noise nuisance.
We will be visiting the site before and during the event are planned and any issues that may arise will be dealt with promptly.
There will be parking on the site for attendees and the event organiser is currently in discussions with our highways department to arrange a road closure to stop the left-hand turn out of the site and preventing the right-hand turn in and out of the site. The traffic management will be closely monitored and further measures will be put in place if required.
The sessions are staggered to ensure there is enough time to manage the exit of pedestrians and vehicles from the first session before people arrive for the second session.
The fairground rides will be placed in the same position on site as last time, in the part of the site that is furthest away from houses nearby. Low noise generators will be used on site and that these will be turned off at 9.15pm. There will be low level background music which will only run during site hours.
The event organiser will be sending letters to the properties nearby that will include contact details so that they can be contacted if any issues arise.
Plymouth City Council has limited powers to prevent a funfair from operating. The event is being held on private land and does not need specific permissions or licenses from the Council.
However, our Public Protection Services have reviewed the operational protocols of the funfair, and are satisfied that they meet the government guidance required to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19.
Ruth Harrell, Director of Public Health for Plymouth, said: “Although it’s natural for residents to be concerned about the COVID risk of holding a fun fair, we are satisfied that the operators have robust plans in place to manage the fair within the guidance.
“That said, it is essential that people are sensible. Don’t go in groups larger than six, keep a social distance from other people, wear masks in any enclosed areas and use sanitiser regularly while out and about. These measures will significantly reduce risk.”
If anyone visits the fair and has concerns, we would ask that they email us on COVID19@plymouth.gov.uk to report any issues, which we will investigate.