Gig-goers will no doubt be ecstatic to head to Bangor this evening for Let’s Rock Northern Ireland - but police have issued them with a warning.
The Co Down city is preparing to party this Saturday night and partners involved in planning for the event at Ward Park are also urging all concert goers to plan their trip and stay safe.
Police say they want everyone attending to enjoy the music and have a good time but to do it safely.
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PSNI Superintendent, Gerry McGrath, said: "Working with the concert promoter, other blue light agencies, Ards and North Down Council and Translink, measures have been put in place to make the event as safe and accessible as possible, but much depends on the co-operation of those attending."
Advice that concert organisers are encouraging attendees to follow includes:
Plan your trip in advance and use public transport
Bangor will be busy on the day of the concert; with some traffic and parking delays likely. For that reason, we are encouraging people to use public transport where possible.
Translink is running enhanced rail shuttle services between Bangor and Belfast for this event.
Translink's Brian Goodfellow said: “We are working closely with event organisers and the PSNI to ensure safe and effective transport services and hope everyone enjoys a great day and night out.
“Passengers are reminded that alcohol consumption and smoking are strictly not permitted on trains, coaches and buses.”
Expect delays if you are driving and think about where you will park
There will be no parking in the immediate area of the concert site. Concert car parking is available at Valentine Playing Fields with access via Abbey Hill Drive. Blue Badge parking available - access signposted via Gransha Road.
Bring ID for entry to the event and if you want to use the bar facilities
Acceptable proof of age documents are:
- Official passport
- Photo driving licence
- Government approved Proof of Age card
- National Union of Students Card (NUS Card)
Drink responsibly
If you are of legal age and choose to consume alcohol, please drink responsibly. This is a Challenge under 25 event; so, if you are lucky enough to look under 25 you will be asked to prove that you are aged 18 or over when you buy alcohol.
Pick-up - there will be no pick-up points in the immediate area of the concert site
This will be rigorously enforced, and traffic delays are inevitable on roads around the site. It is suggested pick-ups are arranged further out at Bloomfield Shopping Centre, Hamilton Road, Newtownards Road or Belfast Road.
Respect the local area
The area around Ward Park is residential. Please respect the property and privacy of those living in the vicinity of the park. Trespassing, anti-social behaviour or damage to property seriously compromises the future of events.
Information on potential road closures
Ahead of Let’s Rock Northern Ireland, the concert organisers Gigantic would like to give advance notice of potential road closures which may occur during the event.
The following roads may be closed between 9pm and 11.30pm, remaining fully open at all other times.
- Gransha Road
- Bloomfield Road
- Castle Street
- Castle Park Road
- Castle Park Avenue
- Abbey Street
This is to provide the walking route between the festival and the car parks, public transport and taxi services. Traffic diversions around any closures will be signposted.
The festival opens at 12 midday, with the carparks opening at 8:30am.
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