Cork concert-goers encouraged to use public transport to avoid ‘inevitable’ delays

AN GARDA Síochána has issued traffic and parking advice ahead of this month’s string of concerts at Virgin Media Park, which kick off today.

Becky Hill will take to the stage at the stadium on Tramore Rd this evening. Nine gigs in total will be played at the stadium up until June 29.

An Garda Síochána has said that traffic and parking delays are inevitable and encouraged patrons to consider walking, cycling, using public transport or taking private coach services to the gigs where possible.

Attendees are encouraged to plan and book return travel arrangements in advance, allowing sufficient travel time to and from the venue.

The 203 and 213 bus routes will operate from Cork city and bring concert-goers within walking distance to the venue.

Irish Rail will be running services to Cork Kent Station.

The drop off area for taxis is the green on the left of Curragh Rd, near the junction of Tory Top Rd and Pearse Rd.

Large vehicles, such as buses, are required to set down and pick up on Curragh Rd outside the Cork City Football Club.

Those attending by car can avail of concert parking at Blackash Car Park where limited parking will be available. There are no park and ride services in operation.

Parking is free for all attending the concerts.

The Blackash parking facilities will close at 11.30pm.

Disabled parking ticket holders must approach the venue via Tramore Rd and park in the CMP grounds.

Parking is also available at Cork city car parks including at Paul St, North Main St, Grand Parade, St Finbarr’s Wandesford Quay, City Hall, and Patrick’s Quay.

Road closures will be in place from 4pm each day, including at the junction of Kinsale Rd and Tramore Rd, the junction of Kinsale Rd and Pearse Rd, the junction of Tramore Rd and Lower Friars Walk, the junction of Pearse Rd and Connolly Rd, the junction of Botanic Rd and Tory Top Rd, and the junction of Kent Rd and Tory Top Rd.

Local access will be maintained throughout the day for residents of these areas.

Vehicles wishing to drop off people attending the concert are advised to use the designated set down and pick up area on the Tramore Rd, which can be accessed via the Togher Slip Rd from the N40 east or west. There is no access to this drop off location from Kinsale Rd.

Vehicles leaving the set down area on Tramore Rd must take a left onto Lower Friars Walk, then turn left from Lower Friars Walk onto Connolly Rd and left again at the traffic lights onto Lower Pouladuff Rd to return to the N40 east or west.

There will be no concert parking or drop off on Connolly Rd, Slieve Mish Park, or Green Lawn.

Attendees are also asked to be mindful of local residents and businesses while coming and going from the venue.