Traffic Changes Confirmed For Cowes Week As Fireworks Return

A series of temporary traffic measures will be introduced across Cowes and East Cowes during this year's Cowes Week as organisers prepare for the return of the regatta's popular firework finale.

The changes, agreed between Cowes Week Limited, Island Roads and the Isle of Wight Council, are designed to improve safety for the thousands of visitors expected to attend while helping to keep traffic flowing throughout the event.

The arrangements, which are similar to those last used in 2019 when the fireworks were previously held, will be in place from Friday 31st July until Saturday 8th August.

Among the key changes, The Parade will be closed to vehicles between 10am and 6am each day.

Businesses will have a dedicated delivery window from 06:00 until 10:00, with access controlled via a staffed barrier on Castle Road.

There will be no vehicle access to The Parade from Bath Road, although Bath Road itself will remain open, with traffic required to leave via Bars Hill.

Cowes High Street will also close daily between Terminus Road and Carvel Lane from 18:00 until at least 01:00.

Passengers travelling on the Red Jet will still be able to be dropped off in Terminus Road.

Meanwhile, Queens Road, Egypt Esplanade, Prince's Esplanade and Woodvale Road will operate as a one-way westbound route towards The Woodvale for the duration of the event.

On the evening of the fireworks display, Queens Road will close from around 17:00 until after the event to allow large crowds to gather safely on Prince's Green.

Organisers have also warned that additional temporary restrictions could be introduced elsewhere in Cowes if required.

In East Cowes, The Esplanade will be closed at its junctions with Albany Road, Maresfield Road and Cambridge Road, creating extra space for spectators attending activities along the waterfront.

Visitors are being urged to leave the car at home where possible, particularly on fireworks night. Southern Vectis will operate additional buses on its Route 1 and N1 services, while the Somerton Park and Ride will provide another option for those travelling into Cowes.

Extra parking will also be available at Northwood House throughout Cowes Week, including on the night of the fireworks.

An Isle of Wight Council spokesperson said:

"It is fantastic to see the Cowes Week fireworks returning this year.

"The display has long been one of the highlights of the Island's summer calendar and we expect it will attract large numbers of residents and visitors to Cowes.

"The traffic management arrangements have been developed with event organisers Cowes Week Limited and Island Roads to keep people safe, maintain access for local businesses and keep traffic moving through the town as efficiently as possible.

"Anyone planning to attend, particularly on fireworks night, is encouraged to plan ahead and use public transport wherever possible.

"Additional bus services will run and Somerton Park and Ride provides a convenient option for visitors travelling into Cowes.

"By using public transport or Park and Ride where possible, people can help reduce congestion and make travelling to and from the event easier for everyone.

"These arrangements are based on measures that have been used successfully during previous Cowes Week events and will help ensure residents, businesses and visitors can enjoy the week safely."