Press release

Rugby World Cup advice for drivers

Drivers heading to Elland Road to watch the rugby fixtures between Italy and Canada and Scotland and USA this weekend (Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September) are being advised to make time to plan their journey in advance to avoid busy periods.

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Highways England expects it could be busier than usual on the M621 and surrounding routes as fans travel to the game. With kick-off at 2.30pm on both days they anticipate busy periods a few hours before and after the game.

Highways England Traffic Officers at the regional control centre in Wakefield will be monitoring traffic, setting electronic signs and dispatching patrols of Traffic Officers to clear up any incidents as quickly as possible to keep supporters and other motorway users on the move. They will also be keeping a close eye on the potential for heavy traffic before and after the game.

Emergency planning manager for Highways England in Yorkshire, Andrew Charnick, said:

We have been working hard for several months with local partners and the event organisers to consider the impact of these two events on the local and regional network.

Additional signing has been put up on our network on the M621 and by the local council on the A68 (M) and the A64 (M) to help with the park and ride schemes that have been put in place to help alleviate congestion.

We urge spectators travelling by car to plan ahead, allow extra time and follow the signs on roads in and around Leeds.

Drivers can plan and check travel conditions via Highways England’s live traffic information and fans can find venue transport information at the Rugby World Cup website.

General enquiries

Members of the public should contact the Highways England customer contact centre on 0300 123 5000.

Media enquiries

Journalists should contact the Highways England press office on 0844 693 1448 and use the menu to speak to the most appropriate press officer.

Published 23 September 2015