Police issue safety appeal ahead of North West 200 as thousands prepare to descend on North Coast

PSNI Chief Superintendent Mark Roberts, NW 200’s Mervyn White and PSNI Constable from Roads Policing.

Police are urging road users travelling to and from this year’s North West 200 to prioritise safety, as tens of thousands of visitors prepare to descend on the North Coast for Northern Ireland’s largest sporting event.

With race week scheduled to run from 4th to 9th May, officers have warned that increased traffic, changing road conditions, and heightened excitement around the event all combine to raise the risk of serious incidents on surrounding roads.

Chief Superintendent Mark Roberts said extensive planning has already been underway to support what is expected to be another major international draw for motorcycle racing.

“With this year’s North West 200 race week set to take place from 4th – 9th May, I am delighted to welcome all of those involved to the North Coast for another great year of motorcycle racing,” he said.

“A significant amount of planning goes into the racing event every year and local officers and I have been working very closely with the organisers and partner agencies, to ensure that the races and all associated events are safe and successful.”

Road safety enforcement to be stepped up

The event is expected to attract thousands of visitors from across the world, with the North Coast remaining a key destination for motorcyclists due to its routes and scenery.

However, police have made clear that safety on the roads leading to and from the event will be a central focus throughout the week.

“Thousands of visitors from all over the world are expected to participate in the programme over the week, and the North Coast is always a magnet for motorcyclists because of the amazing routes and scenery,” Chief Superintendent Roberts continued.

“To ensure the safety of all involved, local officers and the wider police family are keen to ensure that those driving to join us – whether on two wheels or four - take extra care as the excitement builds.”

Road safety enforcement will be stepped up under Operation Lifesaver, with a specific focus on speeding, careless driving, and vehicles that do not comply with the Construction and Use legislation.

“Reducing casualties on our roads remains a service priority through Operation Lifesaver and we will be focusing our road policing operations specifically on speeding and careless driving, as well as vehicles which fail to comply with the Construction and Use legislation,” he said.

“It’s not a race to get here”

Riders travelling to the event have been reminded that public roads are not racetracks, while drivers are being urged to remain alert to motorcyclists, particularly at junctions and areas with reduced visibility.

“If you are riding up to join us, please remember it’s not a race to get here and that road conditions at this time of the year can change very quickly,” he said.

“If you are driving, please take time to ‘Think Bike’ - particularly when emerging from junctions and areas where it may be harder to see oncoming traffic.”

Police presence on public transport

Police visibility will also extend to public transport services, with officers from the Safe Transport Team working alongside Translink to support passenger safety and reduce anti-social behaviour.

“Those of you who travel to the event on public transport will see officers from our Safe Transport Team out and about, working in partnership with Translink to maximise the safety of those using and working on the network,” he said.

“This visibility will provide reassurance to passengers and reduce the likelihood of anti-social behaviour and associated offences.”

Strict safety rules around race circuit

Strict safety measures will also be enforced around the race circuit itself, with spectators warned not to enter the course under any circumstances until it is formally reopened.

“During the scheduled race days, please follow the directions of the event marshals at all times,” he added.

“Do not put yourself, other spectators or participating riders at risk by taking chances by entering the circuit on foot or by vehicle before it is reopened at the direction of the Clerk of the Course.”

Respect for residents and local businesses

Police have also confirmed that efforts to tackle anti-social behaviour and Violence Against Women and Girls will remain a priority throughout the week.

“We want everyone to enjoy the event and the socialising that accompanies it in a safe space,” he said.

“Once again, officers will be focusing on preventing Violence Against Women and Girls and anti-social behaviour in general, and will continue to work closely with our community partners to achieve this goal.”

Visitors have been reminded that the races take place within a busy and active local community, with respect for residents and businesses along the route described as essential.

“The races take part in the heart of an active and vibrant community and as you travel and socialise I would ask that you are respectful of the residents and businesses who welcome you during race week,” he said.

“The towns along the race route ‘triangle’ - Portstewart, Coleraine and Portrush - are very much open for business and look forward to seeing you come through their doors.”

Organisers echo safety message

Motorists have also been advised to expect delays and plan journeys accordingly due to increased traffic volumes across the area.

“Be mindful that journeys in this area are expected to take longer than normal, so please consider this when planning your week,” he said.

“Finally, I wish everyone taking part the best of luck. Our officers look forward to meeting attendees over the course of what promises to be a really exciting week of racing.”

Briggs Equipment North West 200 Race Director Mervyn Whyte echoed the safety message, urging attendees to follow police guidance and show patience on the roads.

“The North West 200 brings tens of thousands of people to the north coast each May and we want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable visit to the races,” he said.

“Please leave the racing to the racers and follow the advice of the police. Have patience on the busy roads and show respect for your fellow travellers and pedestrians.”

With tens of thousands expected to travel across the North Coast throughout race week, police have made clear that while the North West 200 remains one of Northern Ireland’s most anticipated sporting events, its success will depend not only on the racing itself, but on everyone playing their part to keep roads, communities and the wider event safe.

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At a glance

• North West 200 race week runs from 4th to 9th May

• Police expect thousands of visitors from across the world

• Operation Lifesaver enforcement to target speeding and careless driving

• Motorists urged to “Think Bike” and remain alert at junctions

• Spectators warned not to enter circuit until officially reopened

• Increased police presence on public transport with Translink partnership

• Focus on preventing anti-social behaviour and Violence Against Women and Girls

• Visitors asked to respect residents and businesses along the route

• Traffic delays expected across Portstewart, Coleraine and Portrush