Final preparations are taking place for the arrival of the Olympic torch in Lichfield.
The flame will visit the National Memorial Arboretum at Alrewas at 8.30am on June 30, before heading through Streethay at around 9.15am. It is expected to arrive in Lichfield city at 9.20am before being driven to Hopwas.
Thousands are expected to visit the city to catch a glimpse of the Olympic torch and Lichfield District Council is reminding people that the roads along the route will be closed to traffic from around 8.30am until the relay has passed.
Cllr Val Richards said: “We have closely followed the experience of other towns and cities that have hosted the Olympic Torch Relay, and know thousands of people have arrived early to secure a place along the route.
“We are keen to encourage anyone who wants to watch the flame pass through our district to arrive early, particularly if they want to park in our city centre car parks, as roads and car parks along the route will be closed to traffic from 8.30am until the flame has passed
“This also means, if you live near to the route, you will need to plan ahead as access through Streethay, Lichfield city and Hopwas will be affected. In addition, many roads in the heart of the city will be closed throughout the day to allow celebratory events to take place.”
Burntwood Town Council is providing a free park and ride service to help people get into the city to watch the relay. Outward buses will leave from Sankey’s Corner and Burntwood Leisure Centre between 7am and 8.30am. Full details are available at www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/2012.
Cllr Rod Campbell, chairman of Burntwood Town Council, added: “We know how busy the roads and car parks are going to be and we were really keen to help people get into the city to watch this once in a lifetime event and we thought a park and ride would be a great service to offer our residents.”
Many of the city’s car parks will be affected, which means visitors will need to arrive early to secure parking spaces. The only car parks run by Lichfield District Council that will not be subject to the road closures are the Beacon Park car parks and Lombard Street car park
If anyone parks in a council-managed short-stay car park before 8.30am on June 30 and buys a one-hour ticket for 90p, it will be valid until 11.30am.
A series of events are taking place to celebrate the arrival of the Olympic torch. City festivities include a vintage car parade, a sports day for younger children, the Lichfield Dash featuring Roger Black OBE, Cars in the Park, music, comedy and drama on the market headlined by Alvin Stardust and his band, a floating candle display on Minster Pool and much more. Other Events taking place across the district include the Armed Forces Day at the National Memorial Arboretum and a fun day at Streethay.
Councillor Val Richards said: “This is such an exciting day for Lichfield district and we hope lots of people will join us in lining the streets to cheer on the Torchbearers.
“We don’t want anyone to miss the opportunity, which is why we’re reminding everyone to plan their journey in advance. “
To see the route, more information about road closures, and the times the Olympic Torch Relay will pass through local streets visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/2012.