London 2012 Olympic Games - 60,000 a day predicted for Sailing

by Kirsty Hillier on 21 Mar 2012 London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Sailing events are being held in Weymouth and Portland harbour during Sunday 29th July to Saturday 11 August.

The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) and Dorset County Council unveiled a new public awareness campaign that urges day-trippers, residents and holidaymakers to plan now for their travel and transport during the London 2012 Games.

• Visitor numbers in Weymouth and Portland could exceed 60,000 a day
• Huge boost to tourism expected with over 500,000 visitors coming from the South West, South East and Greater London during the Games

It is anticipated that Weymouth and Portland will be a major attraction during the Games, with in excess of 500,000 people expected to visit during the Olympic and Paralympic Sailing events.

Part of the nationwide ‘Get Ahead of the Games’ campaign, the new adverts will highlight the fact that roads in Dorset, particularly routes into Weymouth and Portland, will be much busier while the Games are on.

It stresses that Weymouth and Portland are open for business but will operate differently from usual. Visitors are strongly advised to plan and book their travel now to enable them to enjoy the atmosphere to the full. Residents and businesses are encouraged to think about how they will get around, using public transport or walking and cycling, ideally leaving the car at home.

Recent figures from the ODA show that on four of the 14 days when Sailing and cultural events take place, the visitor numbers in Weymouth and Portland could exceed 60,000 a day, placing the transport system in Dorset under significant pressure. New transport services such as temporary park-and-ride for visitors and enhanced public transport will be provided to ensure spectators can get to events on time and minimise disruption for residents and local businesses.

While the Games will undoubtedly have an impact on the transport system in Dorset, the summer of sport and cultural events also present opportunities for the local tourist industry and businesses as this influx of visitors from the South West, South East and Greater London into the area will take advantage of shops and services.

Hugh Sumner, Director of Transport at the Olympic Delivery Authority comments: 'Travel into the Weymouth and Portland area during the Games will be more challenging than a usual summer period. As such, we are advising those thinking about visiting to book their travel now well in advance in order to avoid any disappointment and ensure they enjoy the Games. We have teamed up with Dorset County Council to combat congestion during this busy time and together we will keep Dorset moving.'

Matthew Piles, Dorset County Council 2012 roads and traffic manager, said: 'All transport measures are designed to promote safe, secure and efficient travel. As well as minimising the impacts of Games time traffic on local residents and businesses.

It is inevitable that routes in and around Weymouth town centre will be affected particularly in the morning and evening commuter periods.

'Residents and visitors staying in the area will be encouraged to use public transport, walk or cycle and plan their travel in advance.'

For more information on how you can prepare for the London 2012 Olympic Games click London 2012 Olympic Games website