The Open: Royal Portrush crowd to get extra rail services
Extra rail services are being scheduled to transport the thousands of golf fans set to descend on Royal Portrush, in County Antrim, this summer for the 153rd Open. Translink has confirmed that special bus and coach services will also be available in addition to normal services.More than 250,000 people are expected to attend the event between 13 July and 20 July.Translink's northern area manager Sarah Simpson said public transport will "play a vital role in showcasing this area to a huge audience".
How to get to The Open at Royal Portrush
Ms Simpson added that its transport plan "offers spectators convenient journey options, reducing traffic congestion and ensuring everyone enjoys their trip to this stunning visitor destination"."There will be enhanced train capacity and frequency, including additional early morning services to Portrush and late evening return services."Special bus and coach services will also be available to book online in addition to normal Goldliner services. Local bus services between Coleraine and Portrush will also be enhanced.Councillor Tanya Stirling, who is deputy mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, has encouraged visitors and locals to take advantage of public transport when planning their visit."We're looking forward to welcoming thousands of visitors to the area for this world-class sporting event and we'd love those coming to enjoy the golf and to also use the opportunity to experience all our council area has to offer." People are being encouraged to plan their journey in advance by visiting Translink's website and taking advantage of the added special services.
Park-and-rides for travelling to The Open by car
The R&A runs The Open, which was last staged at Royal Portrush in 2019, when Ireland's Shane Lowry claimed a first major championship win.Johnnie Cole-Hamilton, executive director of championships with the R&A, said there are less than 100 days until the return of the event at Royal Portrush and "preparations for welcoming tens of thousands of fans to the iconic Dunluce Links are well under way".He said, as a major events organiser, the R&A is encouraging sustainable travel and urged those attending to use the enhanced public transport options, but also a number of park-and-ride facilities for those wanting to travel by road.Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson said a "substantial deployment of police over the seven days of the championship will be in place with the main purpose of the operation to ensure public safety and to minimise disruption to the local community".He said to assist with traffic management and reduce congestion, temporary traffic regulations and parking restrictions will be introduced during The Open.Details on the the Open Park and Ride options are available at the event's website.Tickets for special trains must be booked in advance.
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