Portland Fair has been a tradition on The Island since the 13th century. 

The fair had occupied the village of Chiswell since around 1860 and was moved from this site onto the old railway ground in the early 2000s 

Since coming out of the street the fair had gotten smaller and smaller and I believe this is due in part to a loss of atmosphere, being more exposed to the elements and subsequent loss of customers. As the fair gets smaller it attracts less people and the downward spiral I feel will end up with us losing something that is part of our heritage. 

Each ride and stall is an independent business run by showmen who travel the country. Many of them who come to Portland Fair are local showmen from Weymouth and Dorchester with some of the bigger rides coming from Gloucester and Somerset. These showmen won't turn up if they feel they won't cover their expenses and so the fair needs more support and I feel bringing if back into the street will show that we care about the fair and that it is a part of our community. 

I know that some residents will be affected by the closure of the street either from loss of parking or from the alternative route off the island but it is only for a few days and perhaps the council would be willing to suspend charges at the masonic car park and Hambro car park to allow residents to park there. 

I know the fair has not been what it once was in recent years but maybe this is the change that is needed to make the fair a success again and make sure that we don't lose more of our traditions and customs.