Public urged not to travel to Lewes Bonfire Night as major road and rail restrictions announced

People are being urged not to travel to Lewes for Bonfire Night on Thursday 5 November, with police and emergency services warning of serious overcrowding risks and widespread travel disruption.

Road closures, parking restrictions and changes to train services will be introduced to help manage crowds during the town's annual celebrations.

Sussex Police, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, local authorities and Bonfire Societies are encouraging people to attend organised fireworks displays closer to home instead.

There are continuing concerns about overcrowding in Lewes's narrow streets, with dozens of injuries reported during previous celebrations, including incidents involving fireworks and bangers.

Emergency services have been working with organisers and transport operators for several months to put safety measures in place.

Train services suspended at five stations

Trains will not stop at Lewes, Falmer, Cooksbridge, Glynde or Southease from 5pm on Thursday 5 November until services resume on Friday morning.

Commuters travelling from London Victoria are being warned that the final services serving the affected stations will leave at 3.24pm and 3.54pm.

The last scheduled departures from Lewes include:

• 4.44pm to Brighton

• 4.55pm to London Victoria

• 4.59pm to Ore

• 5.02pm to Seaford

Passengers are advised to check their journeys before travelling, as some stations will have earlier final services.

Major road closures from 4.45pm

Road closures will come into force from 4.45pm on Thursday, with parking restrictions beginning at midday.

The closures include:

• A27 junction with A277 Brighton Road at Ashcombe Roundabout

• A275 Offham Road junction with B2116 Plumpton Road

• C7 Kingston Road junction with C324 Wellgreen Lane

• A26 junction with A2029 Malling Street

• A26 Church Lane junction with Mayhew Way

• The Drove, from Hamsey Lane to the A275

Lewes residents are being advised to have their vehicles home before 4pm, while visitors are being told not to drive into the town.

Drivers and cyclists must follow the restrictions and designated diversion routes.

Emergency services issue safety warning

Group Manager Paul Coppard, from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, said:

“We ask people to support their local organised fireworks events instead of travelling to Lewes on the 5th November.

“We have been working hard with the organisers and our partners to put plans in place to ensure we keep our community safe across East Sussex.

“We’d also like to remind everyone to follow bonfire safety advice and the Fireworks Code.

“Please stay safe, follow official advice and do not put yourself or others at unnecessary risk.”

Sussex Police has confirmed there will be a substantial police presence throughout the celebrations.

Chief Superintendent Graham Barnett said officers would work closely with organisers and stewards to ensure the event passes safely.

“Officers will be on patrol and any criminality and anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated. Enforcement action will be taken against anyone who puts others at risk or ignores event restrictions, including those bringing their own fireworks.”

Members of the public are also being encouraged to report suspicious behaviour to stewards or police officers, or call 999 in an emergency.

Event unsuitable for young children and dogs

Organisers are reminding residents that Lewes Bonfire Night is not suitable for young children or dogs because of the large crowds, loud explosions, smoke and narrow streets.

With thousands of people expected to take part in the processions, authorities say public safety remains their priority.

People living outside Lewes are being encouraged to support smaller, organised displays in their own communities.

Further information about road closures, parking restrictions and travel arrangements is available at Lewes District Council.

Advice about attending local fireworks displays and staying safe is available from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service.