Central Fife parishes travelling to see Pope told to plan ahead

Published 8 Sep 2010 15:00 0 Comments

CENTRAL Fifers are being urged to check their travel plans to avoid traffic chaos when the Pope visits Scotland next Thursday.

With just a week to go, traffic management measures are being put in place across Central Scotland to accommodate the tens of thousands of people visiting the events in Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Those attending are being provided with specific travel plans, for bus, rail and subway services, to allow them to access the event.

For all other people going about their daily business, Transport Scotland is working with local authorities, public transport providers and the police to minimise disruption across the national road and rail network.

Jim Barton, Transport Scotland's chief roads engineer and director, said, "With around 85,000 people travelling to Bellahouston Park in Glasgow and about 100,000 expected in Edinburgh, safety is paramount.

"That is why road authorities and transport providers have prepared comprehensive and coordinated plans."

"There will be a number of restrictions on the trunk roads and motorways, including a partial closure of the northbound M77, with further closures and diversions on local road networks through Glasgow and Edinburgh.

"There will also be increased use of some of Scotland's busiest rail stations at points throughout the day.

"Delays should be expected so we urge people to plan their daily journey in advance, leaving more time than usual and to consider public transport alternatives where possible.

This includes commuters and other people going about their normal business and particularly those using the M77 northbound to reach Glasgow."

Transport company Stagecoach is coordinating travel to the open air Mass at Bellahouston Park in Glasgow.

Train services into and out of Edinburgh and Glasgow will be particularly busy that day with ScotRail putting queuing systems and additional carriages in place where possible to assist with those going to see the Pope.

Transport Scotland has provided a dedicated Papal visit page on its website where the general public can find useful links for journey planning and other general advice. For more information visit www.transportscotland.gov.uk/papal-visit

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