PSNI Releases Travel Advice Ahead Of Irish Open This Weekend

The PSNI and partners have unveiled a major traffic management plan ahead of this year's Amgen Irish Open at Royal County Down from 12-15 September.

The management plan has been developed in partnership with DP World Tour – organisers of the event – the Department for Infrastructure, Translink and Newry Mourne and Down Council.

Amgen Irish Open Championship Director Paul Gillmon, from the DP World Tour, said: "We encourage everybody travelling to the Amgen Irish Open to pay attention to the on-road signage as the information is being updated on a regular basis and will greatly assist their journeys to Royal County Down.

"We are grateful to the Police Service of Northern Ireland for their support and would ask motorists to follow their instructions to ensure a smooth process for all."

Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson said: "Local officers, supported by specialist colleagues have been working alongside a range of partners over the past number of months to prepare for this event. We will have police officers on duty across the district working to keep visitors, participants and the local community safe, while keeping the traffic flowing.

"With a large number of visitors expected throughout the week, there may well be traffic congestion at times, so we are appealing for everyone to plan for delays, allow for extra time for their journeys, and to listen out for traffic reports on local radio and follow social media as the traffic management plan will be constantly reviewed and updated as circumstances change and develop. Visitors should only use the designated park and ride facilities as directed."

Also discussing the travel arrangements, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Pete Byrne said: "Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has consulted with local residents and stakeholders to minimise traffic disruption and delays to both visitors and local residents. "Newcastle is open for business with an exciting Fringe Events Programme to coincide with the tournament. As you plan your journey to Newcastle you can keep up to date with parking and event information on our website and social media channels."

Reminding the public about the traffic arrangements, Colin Sykes Director of Road Asset Maintenance at the Department for Infrastructure said: "Drivers should expect traffic congestion on main roads in the Newcastle area especially at either end of each day's competition.

"I would urge all drivers to properly plan their journeys and to play their part to contribute to a safe environment for all road users. This will also help accommodate the needs of local residents, schools and commerce going about their daily business."

"Drivers are asked to be mindful that additional temporary parking restrictions will be in place to help traffic flow and any necessary access for the emergency services around the Newcastle area. Up to date travel information will be available on the Trafficwatch website and on X/Twitter @TrafficWatchNI

"With the co-operation of all road users, we can look forward to contributing to a successful event with safe access for everyone."

Arthur Hamilton, Translink's Southern Area Manager, Bus Services, said: "The Amgen Irish Open 2024 will be a world-class sports event putting Northern Ireland centre-stage as a top visitor destination. We want to ensure everyone enjoys hassle-free journeys to Newcastle and reduce traffic congestion in the area.

"We are delighted to support this event and have lined up with a number of initiatives to help fans attend including free park and ride and bus shuttle services to and from the event and a special coach service. Public transport will really help you enjoy your day and allow you to sit back and relax."

For up-to-date travel information log onto/follow www.translink.co.uk/irishopen

www.trafficwatchni.com and on X/Twitter @TrafficWatchNI

@policeserviceni

For full event information log on to: www.europeantour.com/dpworldtour