08/05/2014

Public Advised To Prepare For Giro

The public is being advised to plan journeys carefully over the next few days, as Northern Ireland plays host to one of the biggest cycle races in the world.

The Giro d'Italia is an annual cycle race held in Italy, but which incorporates neighbouring countries into its route. Northern Ireland is this year playing host to the start of the race, which will take in parts of the Antrim coast and Armagh, before finishing in Dublin.

Road closures will be in place across the three days of the Giro and anyone who wishes to travel to the event is being advised to use public transport, cycle or walk.

Transport Minister Danny Kennedy said: "There is only one day to go until the world’s cycling elite arrive in Belfast and there is an incredible buzz across the country. Along the route, local businesses and the public have made a huge effort to dress their towns and streets in pink to welcome the cyclists.

"With only one day to go, I want to urge the public to plan their journeys carefully and use public transport, walk or cycle regardless of whether they are going to watch the race or go to work, to school or shopping. Road closures will be in place throughout the event and full details are available on the Trafficwatch NI website.

"Public transport services will be expanded and in addition I am pleased to announce that there will be an additional 28 spaces available at Black's Road Park and Ride site bringing the total number of spaces to 250.

Road closures will take place on Friday 9 May across parts of Belfast and up to Stormont from 09:30 to 12midday and again at 16:00 to 20:30.

On Saturday there will be road closures in Belfast and along the Causeway Coast at various times from 08:00 to 17:00. On the final day (Sunday) the race will travel from Armagh to Louth with road closures taking place from 19:00 the previous evening through to 14:00.

Police Service of Northern Ireland Assistant Chief Constable Alan Todd said: "Police are working hard to ensure that disruption is kept to a minimum. As a police service, our primary duty is to ensure public safety and to this end, we invest significant effort in planning, alongside organisers and partner agencies, to ensure that events like this pass off successfully and with as little disruption to normal everyday life as is possible.

"For the safety of riders and spectators it is essential that all roads are clear from vehicles and that no one parks on any of the planned routes. To ensure that safety any car found parked on the route will be moved by police.

"It is also important to note that only cyclists involved in the race will be allowed on the planned route. These roads are not open to cyclists who are not racing."

Translink’s Ian Campbell said: "Tailored transport plans will be in operation for each day and location of the event. We will provide enhanced train, coach and bus services to get visitors safely to and from the Giro D’Italia events. We will also operate shuttle bus services from key Park and Ride locations.

"Passengers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys due to road closures as there will be timetable changes, diversions and alternative departure points on selected bus services during the event."

Full details of route maps and road closures are available on the Trafficwatch NI website and for public transport information go to Translink's website or call the contact centre on 90 66 66 30.

(IT/MH)

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