2 May 2008:
More than 14,000 people are taking part in the Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon on May Day (Monday 5 May).
The event starts at the City Hall at 9am and finishes in Ormeau Park, with the route taking in all parts of the city, from Sydenham to the Falls Road, Whitehouse to the Ravenhill Road.
As a result, motorists can expect some disruption throughout the morning and early afternoon, although this will be kept to a minimum.
While the majority of roads will remain open throughout the event, the area around City Hall will be closed to through traffic between approximately 8.30am and 9.30am. Disruption also can be expected along the Albertbridge Road, Holywood Road and Sydenham Road until shortly after 10am.
The front runners are expected to pass back through the city centre, en route to the Falls Road, at around 9.25am.
Disruption also can be expected around the four changeover points for the Marathon Relay event. These are on at Bridgend, Hillview Road, Gideon’s Green and Corporation Square. One lane at each location will be closed to traffic for the duration of the event.
Ormeau Embankment will be closed for most of the event, and there will be no parking. A free shuttle bus service will run every five minutes between Ormeau Park and the Belfast City Council car parks on Ormeau Avenue (opposite Katie Daly’s) and Cromac Street between 10am and 6pm.
Information on the expected traffic disruptions can be obtained from the Traffic Information and Control Centre on 08457 123321, or via www.trafficwatchni.com. Regular updates also will be given via the Marathon’s official media partner, U105.
Details of changes to Translink Metro services, including free shuttle buses from the city centre to Ormeau Embankment, can be obtained by calling 028 9066 3300 (7am – 8pm) or visiting www.translink.co.uk
RELEASE ENDS
ISSUED BY CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS, BELFAST CITY COUNCIL
NOTE TO EDITORS:
For further information, please refer media enquiries to:
Mark Ashby, Media Relations Office, Belfast City Council
Tel: (028) 9027 0641