Solheim Cup travel plan revealed

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A detailed transport plan which it’s hoped will tee-up a memorable Solheim Cup at Gleneagles next month has been finalised by travel partners.

Up to 100,000 golf fans from across the world and staff are expected to descend on the Perthshire location for the biggest event in women’s golf, with the main competition taking place from September 13-15. The match days are preceded by three practice days and the PING Junior Solheim Cup competition.

Transport Scotland helped develop the original bid and have been appointed to lead on the development and delivery of a transport plan for the event. This plan is mainly based on the successful plan used for the 2014 Ryder Cup at the same venue.

Main highlights include:

Additional and strengthened ScotRail services
Park and ride locations at Stirling and Perth and a detailed bus management plan
Priority pre-booked car parking at Gleneagles for over 4,000 vehicles
Major road and utility works restrictions near the location (Sept 9th-17th)
A transport co-ordination centre staffed by representatives from bus, road, rail, local authorities and Police Scotland to respond to any urgent situations
A dedicated portal on the Traffic Scotland website to promote sensible travel options
Variable message signs and dedicated signage across the trunk road network/venues to publicise best routes
A dedicated service for the local community including drop-in sessions and a detailed leaflet

Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Connectivity and Infrastructure Michael Matheson said:

“Scotland has rightly earned an excellent reputation for hosting major events like the Commonwealth Games, Ryder Cup and last year’s European Championships. Transport and travel planning has been a key aspect of their successful delivery and the Solheim Cup will be no exception. Once again we are relying on spectators, neighbouring communities, and also the wider public to take heed of travel advice and play their part in enhancing our reputation for staging these types of events which really put Scotland on the map. For those attending the event you should make the most of public transport options and plan ahead. For those not coming along it is important to be aware of any potential knock-on impact in the area. Spectators are urged to make full use of Park and Ride facilities and enhanced rail services. From an operational perspective, a great deal of thought, planning and effort has gone into this event and we want to ensure Gleneagles and our network once again delivers on a global stage.”

Paul Bush, Director of Events at VisitScotland, said: “A world-class spectator experience starts with a robust and spectator-friendly transport plan and I’m confident these plans will perfectly complement the exciting on-course action provided by the players and the wide array of activities within the spectator village, making The 2019 Solheim Cup the perfect day out.”

Leader of Perth & Kinross Council, Councillor Murray Lyle added: “An event of this kind takes an enormous amount of planning and co-ordination especially with regard to transport planning and I would like to thank everyone who is contributing to bringing the Solheim Cup to fruition. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the local community around Gleneagles for their patience in this matter. Not only does the tournament put us on the map for a new generation of visitors from across the UK and Europe, it also provides a boost to the economy locally and across Scotland."

ScotRail Head of Customer Operations, Phil Campbell said: “The Solheim Cup is a hugely exciting event, and we’re really looking forward to playing our part in making it a success. We’ll be doing everything we can to minimise the impact on the local community and our regular customers, while also helping to deliver one of the highlights of the golfing calendar. Scotland has a great track record for hosting major events, and this multi-agency transport plan is key in delivering a memorable Solheim Cup.”

Stirling Council leader, Councillor Scott Farmer, said: “We are delighted that Stirling can help provide a welcome to golf fans from across Scotland and around the world as they get set to enjoy this unique sporting occasion. It is fantastic that the Solheim Cup is taking place in Scotland and by helping deliver a successful transport and travel plan, Stirling is proud to be able to help all visitors enjoy this fantastic event to the full.”

Douglas Robertson, Managing Director, Stagecoach East Scotland said: "Once again we're proud to be involved in the transport plans for such a prestigious event in Scotland. The P&R arrangements for the Ryder Cup were delivered smoothly by Stagecoach and we're confident that this year's plans for the Solheim Cup will be equally as successful."

Police Scotland's Chief Superintendent Suzie Mertes, one of the senior officers responsible for policing the event said: “We have a long history of holding large golfing events in our area and across Scotland and planning has been taking place over many months to ensure that a safe and successful event is once again delivered. There are a number of transport options available, including park and ride, and we encourage people to use these. Plan your journey in advance, allow yourself extra time and, if you are driving, please follow the signs in place which will direct you to the best car parks for the event. Officers will be on hand throughout the event and if you have any concerns or need assistance please speak to them. Most importantly have a great time and enjoy the golf.”

How can I find out more?
Call 01738 475000 with enquiries about traffic and transport related to the Solheim Cup or visit: www.solheimcup2019.com/plan-your-visit/ and trafficscotland.org/solheimcup/