Glasgow 2014: Spectators urged to plan travel now

SPECTATORS heading for Commonwealth Games events were today urged to plan their travel as information was finally posted online by organisers - with just 43 days to go the opening ceremony.

Free public transport has been made available for ticket holders. Picture: TSPL

The move came days after Scotland on Sunday revealed details about free public transport for Games goers was buried in the small print on tickets.

The Games is planned as a car-free event, with parking for spectators near venues only being provided at the Barry Buddon shooting centre, near Carnoustie.

Elsewhere, drivers face having to walk for up to 20 minutes because of widespread parking restrictions.

There will be spaces near venues for pre-booked wheelchair users and blue badge holders.

Free bus, train and Glasgow Subway travel is available for spectators within Glasgow, Clydebank, Bearsden, Bishopbriggs, Rutherglen, Cambuslang, Burnside, Clarkston and Giffnock - using their Games tickets.

Glasgow 2014 said shuttle buses would also run between Buchanan Bus Station in the city centre and key venues.

Park and ride sites will also operate for some of the most popular events, but spaces must be booked in advance. They cost £5 if reserved by the end of June, and £10 in July.

These will cover the opening ceremony at Celtic Park, the mountain bike trial at Cathkin Braes, track and field events and the closing ceremony at Hampden Park, the rugby sevens at Ibrox Stadium, and the triathlon at Strathclyde Country Park.

A journey planner app is available on Glasgow 2014 website,glasgow2014.com/transport.

Glasgow 2014 chief executive David Grevemberg said: “Transport networks will be busier than usual.

“There are lots of measures in place to assist, from shuttle buses to enhanced services with later trains.

“With less than 50 days to go, we would encourage everyone travelling to the Games to plan their travel and book ahead so they can relax and enjoy the largest multi-sport event Scotland has ever seen.”

Brian Devlin, executive director of land and environmental services for Glasgow City Council, said the best way of getting around would be on foot or by bike.

More than 1,000 extra cycle parking spaces have been installed at venues.

Mr Devlin said: “While the venues will be familiar to fans, the best way to reach them will probably be different during the Games.

“Even if you know the city like the back of your hand, now is the right time to check out the website, download the app and plan ahead.”