With the Cheltenham Festival just under two weeks away, Cheltenham Borough Council has unveiled a comprehensive plan aimed at maintaining safety and cleanliness throughout the event, set to take place from Tuesday, March 10, to Friday, March 13, 2026. Over 220,000 attendees are expected to flock to the town across the four-day racing festival.
Central to the council’s strategy is the continuation of the ‘war on wee’ campaign, a response to previous incidents where visitors resorted to relieving themselves in public parks. This initiative includes the provision of additional temporary toilets across the town to combat such behavior and keep public spaces clean and welcoming.
Cllr Victoria Atherstone, cabinet member for safety and communities, emphasized the commitment to safety and community well-being: “The March festival is an incredibly important occasion for Cheltenham. We’re committed to ensuring the town remains clean and welcoming while tackling challenges like illegal taxi operations and anti-social behavior. Protecting women and girls is a top priority, with the ‘Ask for Angela’ scheme active in licensed venues to offer discreet support to anyone feeling unsafe.”
READ MORE: Harrogate Town vs Cheltenham Town: TV Guide and How to Watch
READ MORE: Man Found Unconscious After Altercation Outside Gloucester Pub
Gloucestershire Police will continue to play a proactive role by implementing Operation Vigilant, which involves both plain-clothed and uniformed officers working to identify and deter predatory behavior during the festival.
To support young people, the council is backing the No Child Left Behind Youth Café at Smokey Joe’s on Bennington Street, which will operate as a safe space on March 11, 12, and 13.
Superintendent James Glansfield from the Cheltenham and Tewkesbury Local Policing Area reaffirmed the police’s dedication: “Our officers will increase patrols day and night to ensure both visitors and residents can enjoy the festival safely and responsibly. We urge anyone with concerns to report them promptly, using 101 or contacting emergency services at 999 where immediate danger is present.”
Racecourse officials are also heavily involved in the safety campaign. Andre Klein, assistant general manager at Cheltenham Racecourse, shared his support: “The Festival transforms Cheltenham into a global sporting hub each March. Through our ‘Love our Turf’ campaign and collaboration with local partners, we aim to deliver a safe, enjoyable experience while minimizing disruption to residents.”
Guy Lavender, CEO of Cheltenham Racecourse, highlighted the importance of strong community ties: “Our relationship with local residents is critical. We provide ample restroom facilities, maintain an open helpline for residents’ concerns, and deploy dedicated teams to reduce anti-social incidents. While not perfect, we strive continuously to be responsive and caring neighbors, building on the successes of last year’s festival.”
Together, these coordinated efforts by the council, police, racecourse, and community groups aim to ensure that the 2026 Cheltenham Festival is both a memorable and safe event for all attending.