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Bermuda Day parade route reversal is criticised

Government’s decision to reverse the route for this year’s Bermuda Day parade has been labelled “unfair“ by drum corps instructor Terry Flood“If something isn’t broken, why fix it?” said Mr Flood.He said the traditional Bernard Park finish made better sense than ending it at City Hall.“I haven’t come across one person who thinks the new route is a good idea. Jamming everyone in at City Hall where there’s not enough space isn’t fair. We need space where people can relax. This is also going to bring a lot of congestion into town.”The route changes were announced on April 18 by Youth, Families and Sports Minister Glenn Blakeney.The parade route has been altered before: in 2002 and 2003 it finished at the National Sports Stadium, and in 2005 at nearby North Field. The last five parades have finished at Bernard Park.Mr Flood said he’s been performing in Bermuda’s parades for over 50 years.“It’s part of our heritage to finish there,“ he said. “Bernard Park has plenty of space for the floats and flatbed trucks, for children to run around.”He said: “I’m well-known for dealing with parades and sitting on parade committees. Different groups and float builders have been telling me they’re not pleased.”Mr Flood also objected to moving the viewing point for Bermuda Day dignitaries to Cedar Avenue.In his announcement, Mr Blakeney said Cedar Avenue had been lauded as “the people’s avenue” for its festive atmosphere, for years.Mr Flood called it a national tradition to have the viewing platform at the flagpole on Front Street. “Every street is the people’s street,” he said. “Why waste tax money putting a viewing stand on Cedar Avenue?“The Premier should call rank on this and get the parade left the way it was.”