DERRY is gearing up for another spectacular Hallowe’en extravaganza, and with tens of thousands expected in the city to enjoy the celebrations next Tuesday, October 31 the public is being advised there may be some disruptions to travel in and around the city centre.
A number of car park and road closures will be put in place to ensure public safety and viewing of the main carnival parade, which this year will have an extended route beginning from 7pm.
The parade has a distinctly lunar theme as the crowds gather to Release the Samhain Moon, with performers leaving from Council’s Car Park on Queen’s Quay before the parade will move along Boating Club Lane to the Strand Road.
From here it will proceed along the Strand Road to Harbour Square Roundabout before progressing right along the Foyle Embankment to Water Street, returning back towards the Quay, finishing at the Council car park at approximately 8.15 pm.
The parade will be followed by a world class fireworks display on the Foyle from 8.15 pm.
Looking ahead to the event, which has now gained international status, the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor Maolíosa McHugh, said: “This weekend the festivities will be in full swing, with four days of family activities taking place across the district.
“As the city prepares to submit its bid for the title of European Capital of Culture alongside Belfast, what better way to showcase our ability to host and develop international quality events which appeal to a global audience.
“As we celebrate the culture that sets us apart from the rest of the world over the coming days I would encourage everyone to back our bid for ECOC2023.
“With so many people expected here, especially on October 31, I would also urge people to plan ahead of their visit to ensure their journey is stress free and that they are aware of all the guidance in terms of road closures and parking.
“Let’s make this a Hallowe’en to remember.”
Events co-ordinator with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Liz Cunningham, advised people to check out the Council’s website in order to ensure the very best Halloween experience.
“Anyone planning to attend the festivities should check out the traffic and travel information online and should pay attention to the directions of stewards and the PSNI on the night,” she stressed.
“We would ask that everyone adheres to the advice being given, and where possible to avoid parking in the city centre and to allow a bit of extra time for their journey. We hope that everyone has a very safe and a very happy Hallowe’en.”
Motorists should note that Queen’s Quay will be closed to traffic from 6pm until 8.30pm (slightly earlier than previous years) and that Queen’s Quay and Foyle Street Car Parks will be closed all day. Strand Road Car Park will be open for Accessible Parking only.
There will be no access to Quayside or Victoria Market Car parks from 6pm until 8.30pm to facilitate the passing of the parade, but both will remain open prior to and following the parade and fireworks.
Car parking will be available at major car parks such as Foyleside Shopping Centre, Quayside Shopping Centre, William Street Car Park and at the Fort George, Foyle Arena and Oakgrove primary school.
Further traffic diversions will be in place in and around the city centre, therefore where possible avoid driving to the city centre, opt to park and stride where possible, and allow a little extra time for your journey.
Park and stride facilities are available at Fort George, North West Regional College and Magee University.
The Peace Bridge will also be closed from 7.15pm until 8.40pm. Once the event has ended, Peace Bridge and road access should be returned to normal fairly quickly.
Anyone hoping to enjoy a good view of the fireworks should note that Queen’s Quay will provide the ideal spot.
There will also be an accessible viewing area for people with impaired mobility located on the Queen’s Quay opposite the City Hotel and in the Strand Road Car Park.
Anyone who wishes to avail of this area should arrive a little earlier in order to ensure unimpeded access before the surrounding areas become heavily crowded.
Derry City and Strabane District Council have introduced a point of contact to the Carnival for Access and Inclusion making the event more accessible and inclusive to all.
This will include additions to the provisions from previous years such as a quiet room available on the 31st October at the Guildhall and North West Regional College, Strand Building.
Should anyone require details in regards to access and inclusion for this event please contact Louise Boyce via email at [email protected] or telephone 028 7125 3253, ext 4349. Information is also available at www.derrystrabane.com/inclusion.
Translink have confirmed that there will be some disruption to their services around any road closures.
Translink bus information can be found at www.translink.co.uk/Routes-and-Timetables.
Further updates to travel arrangements will be made available via local radio stations such as Radio Foyle, Q102, Downtown and Cool FM throughout the day.
Further details on Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Hallowe’en Celebrations and Strabane’s traffic arrangements can be found at www.derryhalloween.com/traffic
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