Commuters beware, sporting fixtures promise gridlock

More than 40,000 people travelling to the Eminem concert at the Punchestown Racecourse this evening appear to have benefited …

More than 40,000 people travelling to the Eminem concert at the Punchestown Racecourse this evening appear to have benefited from the lessons learned at the venue last night.

Yesterday, a tail back estimated at 10 miles stretched along the Naas dual-carraigeway holding up concert goers and regular commuters for hours.

Traffic on the same route this evening is reported to be moving well, if slowly.

Motorists in Dublin city centre are warned that parking has been prohibited since 8 a.m. on either side of Lansdowne Road and from the Shelbourne to Herbert Bridge and both sides of Lansdowne Lane and Havelock Square due to the Westlife concert at Landsdowne Road this evening.

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Similar restrictions will be in place on Saturday when Westlife play the second and final gig at this venue. Both concerts start at 7 p.m.

The Irish Derby festival starts this evening at the Curragh and runs all weekend. Motorists will face delays on routes close to the racecourse particularly on Sunday when the Budwesier Irish Derby will be run. Racing on Sunday starts at 1.15 p.m.

With more than 35,000 fans expected at the Dublin-Derry clash in Clones, Co Monaghan long delays are expected along the N3. Throw in is at 4.15 p.m. and over 25,000 Dublin supporters are expected to travel so leave early if you're going from Dublin.

The other big GAA game this weekend is the Munster Hurling Final at Semple Stadium in Thurles where Cork take on Waterford. Throw in there is at 3.30 p.m.

Persistent and heavy rain will remain in the east and north this evening clearing to a dry and bright day tomorrow afternoon.

However, by Saturday evening the rain is expected to return although temperatures will remain mild.

Sunday will see continuing showers mixed with sunny spells. Fresh or strong Southeast to East winds are expected in the afternoon and evening.

David Labanyi

David Labanyi

David Labanyi is the Head of Audience with The Irish Times