The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Spectators urged to plan their journeys to Open
TRAVEL: 170,000 visitors expected at Carnoustie and much thought has gone into making event a success
Open visitors are being urged to plan their journeys to Carnoustie with more than 170,000 spectators expected to descend on Tayside.
A multi-agency approach has been taken as organisers try to make sure visitors and residents enjoy a safe and successful championship.
Information about travelling to the Angus town by road, bus, rail, air, bike or sea is available on Angus Council’s website.
Provost Ronnie Proctor offered a warm welcome to the region and expressed hopes that everyone has a fantastic time.
He said: “The eyes of the sporting world will turn to Carnoustie and Angus next week and we look forward to showing them what a fantastic place this is. A huge amount of planning has been invested in delivering a safe, secure and successful event for everyone.
“This has meant some temporary changes and restriction to the way in which traffic is managed in and around the town.
“But this has been done in a way to keep disruption to a minimum while ensuring the safe and secure movement of large numbers of people and vehicles.”
Johnnie Cole-Hamilton, executive director-championships at the R&A said: “The Open is a global sporting event with the best players in the sport competing for the famous Claret Jug trophy.
“We are delighted to be bringing the Championship back to Carnoustie which is a truly outstanding links with a rich history.
“We look forward to a fantastic week of golf and are working hard with our partners to ensure that fans have a hugely memorable experience at the championship.”
Supt Andrew Todd, one of the senior officers responsible for policing the event, said planning has been taking place over many months to ensure that a safe and successful event is delivered.
He said: “There are a number of public transport options available and we encourage people to use these.
“Plan your journey in advance, allow yourself extra time and, if you are driving, please follow the signs which will direct you to the best car parks for the event. Officers will be on hand and if you have any concerns or need assistance please speak to them. Most importantly have a great time and enjoy the golf.”
Stein Connelly from Transport Scotland said: “With a large attendance expected across the four days of the tournament, there will inevitably be an impact on the trunk road network around Carnoustie.
“We would urge spectators to plan their journey to and from the course in advance, and encourage them to use public transport wherever possible.
“You can get the most up to date information on the trunk road network at the Traffic Scotland website, mobile website – trafficscotland – and twitter page. For information on other modes of transport, check with your operator before you set off.”