Preparing For Influx During Olympics

Now's the time to get moving in Weymouth and Portland.

Visitor numbers in Weymouth and Portland could exceed 60,000 a day during peak times. It's going to be a huge boost to tourism with more than 500,000 visitors coming from South West, South East and Greater London during the Games.

The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) and Dorset County Council today 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. 

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 sailing and cultural events. 

Part of the nationwide 'Get Ahead of the Games' campaign, the new adverts highlight that roads in Dorset, and in particular the 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 and residents are strongly advised to plan and book their travel now to enable them to enjoy the atmosphere to the full.

Recent figures from the ODA show that on four of the 14 days when Sailing and cultural events take place (Sunday 29th July - Saturday 11th August), 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.

While the Games will undoubtedly have an impact on the transport system in Dorset, the summer of sport and cultural events also present a massive profit opportunity for the local tourist industry and local 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."