Thousands of spectators will be heading for The Hoe and other vantage points on the waterfront to watch the spectacular SailGP racing on July 17 and 18.
And Plymouth City Council is pulling out all the stops too make sure the epic outdoor event is as COVID-19 secure as possible.
But they are also calling on spectators to do their bit to keep everything safe.
Council leader Nick Kelly said:
“I’m incredibly excited about SailGP. It’s a chance to show off our city in all its glory. People all over the globe and in this country will get cracking views of Plymouth as this spectacle plays out in the Sound, and on the official broadcast, including live on Sky Sports and YouTube. But we know we still have to be careful.
“With some events falling by the wayside because of the pandemic, we want to make doubly sure that this event is as COVID secure as it can be. We are doing all we can but we need everyone to do their bit and follow guidance.”
There are still some tickets available in the spectator area on the Hoe but people will need to register in advance. (visitplymouth.co.uk/SailGP).
Numbers have been limited according to Government guidelines and the site designed so that people can spread out easily. Queuing systems are in place for concessions and as the event is ticketed, the NHS track and trace system can be used. Boat owners can also register to bring their own boat, allowing them to watch all the action at the edge of the racecourse.
Outside of the formal event, many people will want to watch the action taking place on the water. While there is no shortage of bracing fresh air, which helps reduce the risk of spreading the virus, the council is reminding everyone to remember to follow the ‘hands, face, space’ guidance.
To help to keep visitors safe a number of measures will be introduced:
- A PA system along the waterfront from Dutton’s to The Waterfront pub so that all along the sea front people will be able to hear the race commentary – no excuse not to spread out!
- The numbers of people who can view the race at Mountbatten Pier will be limited to avoid overcrowding
- Additional toilets and handwashing facilities at all key locations
- COVID marshals will be on patrol along Hoe Road, Madeira Road, Mountbatten and Jennycliff to make sure everyone feels safe while they are out and about, reminders over the PA to stick to COVID safety measures and signage to remind people about keeping their distance
A number of roads will be closed along the waterfront to create much more space and to make it easier and safer for people to enjoy the spectacle. They include Hoe Road, Madeira Road, Armada Way loop (Crowne Plaza), Citadel Road from Lockyer Street to Hoe Approach, Windsor Place and Osborne Place to the junction at the back of The Esplanade.
The following roads around Jennycliff will be closed between 11am and 5pm on July 17 and 18: Staddon Lane, Jennycliff Lane from the junction of Staddon Lane to Lalebrick Road and Lawrence Road from roundabout with Shaw Way.
For more information about the event visit www.sailgp.com
