As many of you will know, we didn't run the Spring Fayre this year due to rising costs,  a shortage of volunteers and other factors. Since then, we've been working hard to explore how we could bring it back in May 2027.

However, following a recent meeting with the council, we've had to reassess the financial viability of the event. Increased costs relating to security and new anti-terrorism requirements, licensing and traffic management have pushed the estimated cost to around £70,000, nearly £30,000 more than before. This includes the additional cost of Traffic Management Orders, covering road diversions, signage and public notices.

For a one-day, free community event, that's a substantial amount to raise.

As a volunteer-run, non-profit event, we rely on sponsorship and contributions from local businesses. Our independent WBR businesses can only contribute so much, while larger potential sponsors are also facing tighter budgets. We haven't given up on the Spring Fayre, but we need to be realistic about what is achievable.

Could smaller, more regular events work better?

Some WBR businesses have suggested holding smaller events on some adjacent side streets instead. These could be easier to organise and fund, while still bringing people together and supporting local businesses.

One possibility would be to start with an events every three months, with the potential to increase the frequency if successful. Streets such as Stephendale Road (between WBR and De Morgan Road), Hazlebury Road (between WBR and Cranberry Road) or Broughton Road Approach could provide space for a small number of stalls. Any plans would need to be developed carefully in consultation with local residents.

We want to hear from you

We have a Spacehive crowdfunding campaign ready to launch for the larger Spring Fayre in May 2027, but before committing to it, we want to understand whether the community would prefer the traditional Spring Fayre or smaller, more regular events.

Please reply to this email or email your thoughts to [email protected]. Your feedback will help us decide how best to take things forward.