New travel plans at Rose Bowl

The Rose Bowl has announced details of a two-year plan to revolutionise the travel experience for attending ‘big match’ events at Hampshire’s home ground.

The stadium in Southampton is fast becoming one of the UK’s top international event venues but last September, a combination of adverse weather conditions and a clash with the local Southampton Boat Show left many spectators attending The Rose Bowl delayed and frustrated.

The venue reacted immediately and, in conjunction with traffic management experts, has worked tirelessly throughout the winter consulting with Hampshire County Council, Eastleigh Borough Council, The Highways Agency, Hampshire Constabulary, bus and rail services and the local community liaison group in an effort to greatly enhance the spectator experience.

At future major vents The Rose Bowl will be introducing three additional park and ride locations, both to the east and west of the venue, brand new park and walk facilities and traffic control measures supervised by the police.

Enhanced liaison with rail and bus services and the provision of synchronised shuttle services are further activities designed to manage the impact of big match days on the local road infrastructure.

“Whether attending major events at Twickenham, Lord’s, Wimbledon or The Rose Bowl, a big part of the day’s experience includes the journey to and from the venue,” said Rod Bransgrove, Chairman of The Rose Bowl.

“Our plan is to fully integrate that travel planning element into the total package. In 2006 this will include a full choice of travel options at the point of event ticket purchase whilst, in 2005, spectators attending major fixtures at The Rose Bowl will be contacted and assisted in their travel arrangements.”

“It is our intention to provide each and every customer with a great experience throughout their day at The Rose Bowl.

“We want to ensure that no-one sets off for The Rose Bowl without knowing their route or method of access and, with this information, we can accurately resource traffic planning, parking and shuttle services in order to ensure convenience of arrival and departure.”