Close your street to traffic for free on Car Free Day in September
5 August 2026 · By Boroughly editorial — AI-assisted, human-reviewed.
Families across Richmond upon Thames — including in Barnes — have until 4 September to apply to host a Play Street on either Saturday 19 or Sunday 20 September 2026, as part of the borough's Car Free Day celebrations.
The scheme lets residents close their road to through-traffic for up to four hours, giving children space to play outside with friends and neighbours. This year, the council is again waiving the administration fee for the necessary road closure permit, removing what has previously been a barrier for some streets.
Any residential road can apply, provided it is not a main road, a bus route or an emergency vehicle route. Applicants need to consult their neighbours in advance and take responsibility for supervising the event on the day — including ensuring access is maintained for residents' own vehicles and the emergency services if needed.
It is a straightforward but genuinely fun way to use the Car Free Day spirit at street level, rather than simply watching it pass by. Last year several Barnes streets took part, and the council is hoping more will join in this time.
To apply or find out more, visit the council's Play Streets page before the 4 September deadline. Full details are on the Richmond Council website.