Translink is reminding anyone heading to Portrush during The 153rd Open Championship week (13-20 July) to plan their travel in advance and leave extra time for journeys.
Every available train, coach and bus will be in operation to accommodate thousands of additional passengers. Customers should expect services to be busy, particularly during the main championship days (17-20 July).
Around 278,000 visitors are expected to attend the Championship. Speaking about the scale of the transport plan, Translink’s Sarah Simpson, said:
“After the success of 2019, we’re looking forward to The Open’s return to Northern Ireland. With huge numbers of fans heading to the Causeway Coast to watch the world’s greatest golfers, public transport will once again play a vital role in showcasing this area to a huge audience.
“Our extensive transport plan provides extra capacity for over 115,000 passengers travelling to and around Portrush for this world-class sporting event, offering spectators plenty of choice and convenience, reducing traffic congestion and ensuring visitors enjoy their trip to this stunning visitor destination.
“There will be enhanced train capacity & frequency including additional services to Portrush & late evening return services. Special bus and coach services are also available in addition to normal Goldliner services and our popular Ulsterbus 140 service travelling between Coleraine & Portrush will also be enhanced.
“I would encourage anyone heading to The Open to visit our website for travel options and make the most of their time on the Causeway Coast,” adds Sarah.
In addition to all the special services to Portrush for the Championship, Translink will be maintaining the operation of around 13,000 services per day across the bus and rail network, supporting around 1 million passenger journeys to destinations across NI over the week.
Ahead of the exciting week of golf, Translink has issued the following important travel advice:
- Following high demand, there is still some availability left for special services to Portrush - check https://www.translink.co.uk/the-153rd-open for details & bookings.
- Golf fans can also choose from a range of normal timetabled bus, coach and rail services to Portrush - download the Translink JourneyPlanner App to plan your travel.
- Arrive at stations 30mins before departure time. A queuing system will be in place an seating will be available on a first come, first served basis with additional standing room available.
- If possible, anyone not attending the golf should travel by train to Portrush after 10am
- Due to large numbers travelling on services, there will be limited space for bags, buggies, bicycles or any other bulky items.
- For the lastest Translink travel updates follow @Translink_NI #OpenTravel
