Keep the Village Street Party in St. James's Street

The Village Street Party is a wonderful celebration of equality, taking place once a year during Pride weekend in its natural home, the St. James’s Street area, Brighton’s ‘Gay Village’.

It is an event that we should be proud of - it is fun, it unites communities, supports local LGBT groups and businesses, and showcases the area to the thousands of tourists our city attracts for Pride.

We are therefore deeply concerned that the Green Party councillors for Queen’s Park ward have been pushing to move the Street Party from the Village and exclude the LGBT community from any ‘consultation.'

Attempting to cut the Gay Village out of the celebrations for Pride weekend is barmy and would never work.

Last year's street party went well. It made money and there was a prompt clean-up after. This year we hope the event will build and diversify during the day with the Women's Performance group in New Steine and a community picnic in Dorset Gardens.

Both the police and the Council are happy for the event to continue where it is, and organisers remain committed to working with all stakeholder groups - including local residents - to ensure that we produce best possible event for all concerned.

The community has worked hard over the years to make this event the success it is and we sincerely hope it continues to thrive for many years to come.

Please sign this petition if you would like to see the Village Street Party remain in the St. James's Street area.