A Wiltshire High Street is set to close to motorists as parking restrictions are tightened for an annual event.
Wiltshire Council are taking steps to “safeguard” the World Heritage Site at Avebury with people set to descend on the area for the Summer Solstice.
The solstice is a hugely popular celebration of the longest day of the year which sees many flock to the village, which has been listed as one of the top places to enjoy the event by Countryfile Magazine.
In order to preserve the historic landscape, and ensure people’s “safety”, several road closures and parking restrictions are being implemented this month.
The Ridgeway was closed to vehicles at Overton Hill on Wednesday, June 14, and will remain shut until June 23.
This restriction will stretch from the junction with the A4 northwards to the junction with Byway AVEB5, including the car park off the A4.
The Ridgeway is also closed near Hackpen Hill.
From 6am on Tuesday, June 20, Avebury High Street will also be closed to all motorists except residents.
The closure of the High Street will remain in force across the solstice and will end at noon on Thursday, June 22.
‘No waiting’ restrictions will also be in place during the solstice, beginning at 6am on June 19, and the council have warned that any vehicles parking illegally will be towed away.
Cllr Caroline Thomas, the cabinet member for transport, said: “Avebury is a beautiful area with World Heritage Status, and therefore it's so important to protect and preserve it for generations to come. With that in mind, we still want people to be able to attend the site safely to enjoy the Summer Solstice.
“As last year, and after agreeing with both The National Trust and Avebury Parish Council that it was a suitable arrangement, we have again decided to close The Ridgeway between June 14 and 23.
“This should help alleviate any concerns about the risk of damage to the landscape within the site and also help to ensure Solstice celebrations can be managed safely.
“Anyone planning on visiting Avebury for the Summer Solstice should take note of these important restrictions and plan their celebrations appropriately.”
Similar restrictions were also in place last year for the annual event and both Avebury Parish Council and The National Trust were consulted on the decision.
English Heritage are also running a live stream for those wishing to see the sunset and sunrise at Stonehenge.
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