Road and rail changes planned for Lewes Bonfire

Nigel French/ Visit Lewes Words made up of letters that have been set on fire. People are carrying the words "wunt" "be" and "druv". At the forefront of the image are lots of silhouettes of people watching and filming on their phones. Nigel French/ Visit Lewes
Six bonfire societies will be holding processions through the streets of Lewes

People planning to attend Lewes Bonfire Night celebrations on Tuesday are being warned to plan ahead and stay safe.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service has asked people to stay away from the event unless they live in Lewes "because the crowds and narrow streets can present unique safety challenges".

Six bonfire societies are holding processions through the streets of the town from 20:00 GMT followed by individual bonfire events and firework displays.

Visit Lewes is encouraging people to "enjoy the processions from the comfort of their own homes" as there is a livestream available online.

Nigel French/ Visit Lewes Crosses on fire. The crosses are made out of wood and being burnt by three individuals. There is a large crowd of people watching. Nigel French/ Visit Lewes
There will be a livestream of the event available online

Road closures

Road closures are expected in and around Lewes from 16:45 on Tuesday.

From midday, parking restrictions will start to be enforced with on-street parking suspended on certain streets in the town.

According to Lewes District Council, these are the main roads that will be affected:

  • A27 junction with the A277 Brighton Road
  • A275 Offham Road with B2116 Plumpton Road
  • C7 Kingston Road junction with C324 Wellgreen Lane
  • A26 junction with A2029 Malling Street
  • A26 Malling Hill Junction with Church Lane

Further closures are likely inside the town.

Roads in Lewes will reopen once Sussex Police deem it safe, Lewes District Council said this should be around 02:00 on Wednesday.

Public transport

Buses will be running on Tuesday but many will be on diverted routes.

Brighton and Hove Buses said it would have extra staff at many of its stations to help passengers but that anyone travelling should expect delays.

The bus routes affected can be found on the company's website.

Trains will not stop at Lewes or nearby stations Falmer, Cooksbridge, Glynde and Southease from 17:00.

More information can be found on the Southern Railway and National Rail websites.

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