Around 17,000 people are taking part in the Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon this coming May Day Bank Holiday Monday (May 4th).
The event starts at the City Hall at 9 am 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 every attempt will be made to ensure that this is kept to a minimum. Full details of the route and anticipated timings can be found at www.belfastcitymarathon.com
While the majority of roads will remain open throughout the event, the area around City Hall will be closed to through traffic between approximately 6.30am and 10 am, although disruption can be expected in the city centre until around 12 noon. Disruption also can be expected along the Albertbridge Road, Holywood Road and Sydenham Bypass until shortly after 11 am.
The front runners are expected to pass back through the city centre, en route to the Falls Road, at around 9.40 am. The area surrounding Victoria Street will be disrupted between 9 am and 11 am.
Disruption can be expected around the four changeover points for the Marathon Relay event. At the first relay point at Bridge End, the road will be closed from 6 am – 2 pm. Hillview Road will be closed from 9 am – 2 pm, while Gideon’s Green and Corporation Street will be closed from 6 am – 3 pm.
Disruption also can be expected on the country-bound Antrim Road, from around 9.45 am until around 11 am, as the runners will still be in a large group as they undertake one of the race’s longest straight and challenging stretches. Belfast Zoo will be open as normal, with diversions in place for access (please check with the Zoo on 028 9077 6277 for information on the best route).
Another point where some disruption can be expected is around Duncrue Road at the Fortwilliam Roundabout off slip. Again, Police and stewards will be working to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum, but drivers travelling to and from the Stena Line terminal should be aware of possible delays and plan their journeys accordingly. For more information on check in times, call 08447 707070 or visit www.stenaline.co.uk
Disruption can also be expected in Dock Street, while Ormeau Embankment will be closed from 6.30 am until after 5 pm.
For spectators wishing to meet family and friends at the finish area, a free park and ride shuttle bus service will run between Ormeau Park and the Belfast City Council car parks on Ormeau Avenue (opposite The Limelight complex) and Cromac Street between 10am and 5pm. This service will operate approximately every ten minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
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 can be obtained by calling 028 9066 6630 (7am – 8pm) or visiting www.translink.co.uk