Chester to host Freedom Parade for 22 Multi-Role Medical Regiment

Residents and visitors are invited to line the streets of Chester on Saturday, 18th July 2026 late morning as 22 Multi Role Medical Regiment exercises its Freedom of the Borough of Cheshire West and Chester.

It is one of the highest civic honours that can be granted by a local authority. The Regiment was awarded the Freedom of the Borough by Cheshire West and Chester Council in December 2024 in recognition of its service and strong relationship with the borough.

The parade will provide an opportunity to celebrate the enduring links between the Armed Forces and local communities, while recognising the dedication, professionalism and commitment of those who serve. As part of the ceremony, soldiers will march through Chester city centre with bayonets fixed, exercising the traditional rights associated with the Freedom of the Borough.

The event reflects Chester's long-standing military heritage and status as a proud garrison city. It also provides residents with an opportunity to show their support for serving personnel, veterans and military families, while celebrating the important contribution the Armed Forces make to national security and public service.

Road Closures and Traffic Restrictions:

To facilitate the event safely, temporary road closures will be in place in Chester city centre. 

The following lengths of road will be closed from 4.30pm on Friday, 17th July to 1pm on Saturday, 18th July 2026:

• Northgate Street (From Princess Street to Eastgate Street)
• St Werburgh Street (From Northgate Street to Eastgate Street)
• Eastgate Street (From Northgate Street to Foregate Street)
• Foregate Street (From Eastgate Street to St Johns Street)
• St John Street (From Foregate Street to a point approximately 35m south of Foregate Street)
• Bridge Street (6metres north of Feathers Lane to Watergate Street
• Watergate Street (from Bridge Street to Nicholas Street

Delivery access will be enabled by permission on the above roads between 7am and 10am on Saturday, 18th July.

The following lengths of road will be closed from 11am to 1pm on Saturday, 18 July 2026.

• Northgate Street (From Hunter Street to Princess Street)
• Princess Street (Northgate Street to a point 50m west of Northgate Street)

The order will also suspend parking, loading and unloading from 7am to 1pm.

• Hamilton Place ( Crook Street to a point 95m east of Crook Street)
• Northgate Street (from Hunter Street to St Werburgh Street)
• St Werburgh Street (Full Length)
• Eastgate Street (St Werburgh Street to Foregate Street)
• Foregate Street (From Eastgate Street to St John Street)

Pedestrian access to premises situated on or adjacent to the roads will be maintained at all times.

Councillor Rob Bisset, Chair of Cheshire West and Chester Council, said:

"It is a tremendous honour to welcome 22 Multi Role Medical Regiment to Chester as they exercise their Freedom of the Borough. This parade recognises the Regiment's outstanding service and celebrates the strong ties between the Armed Forces and our communities across Cheshire West and Chester."

"We are proud to acknowledge the dedication, professionalism and commitment of the men and women who serve our country. I would encourage residents and visitors to join us in the city centre on 18 July to celebrate this special occasion and show their support for our Armed Forces."

The Lord Mayor of Chester, Councillor Margaret Parker, said:

"Chester has a proud military heritage stretching back nearly 2,000 years and remains a proud garrison city. The Freedom Parade is a fitting opportunity for residents and visitors to come together and show their appreciation for 22 Multi Role Medical Regiment."

"The Freedom of the Borough is one of the highest honours that can be bestowed by a local authority, reflecting the strong relationship between the Regiment and our community. We are delighted to welcome the Regiment to the city and look forward to celebrating this historic occasion together." 

Members of the public are encouraged to attend and support this significant civic event.