Festivalgoers advised to plan their travel ahead of Download Festival

The music festival at Donington Park runs between Friday 12 June and Sunday 14 June and will see Guns N Roses, Limp Bizkit and Linkin Park headlining.

Donington Park is located next to East Midlands Airport, four miles west of junction 23a of the M1 and five miles from junction 24.

The M1, A42, A453, A50 and A38 are expected to see significant increases in traffic, particularly when campsites open on Wednesday 10 June, on Friday for fans with three-day camping tickets and early on Monday 15 June as campers head home.

National Highways is advising ticketholders to follow event signage and travel information from festival organisers for correct directions to festival car parks, rather than relying on satnavs and phone apps.

National Highways has urged festivalgoers to plan their journeys before they travel. Credit Matt Higgs

Luke Thrussell, Senior Network Planner for the Midlands at National Highways, said:

“Every year we see thousands of people travelling to Donington Park for the festival, and their satnavs or phone apps will often take them to the wrong location for car parks or through unsuitable routes. This can lead to increased traffic and congestion on roads surrounding the venue.

“Therefore, it is extremely important people follow the correct signage and directions on the Download Festival website for their ticket type.

“Do not assume the route or entry points you have used previously will be the same this year and plan your journey before you set off.”

National Highways will be adding extra traffic officer patrols throughout the festival and will work with event organisers to help keep roads clear and traffic flowing.

Electronic messages on nearby motorways and A roads will also notify motorists of any delays.

National Highways’ seasonal T.R.I.P. campaign, encourages drivers to check their vehicles before setting off on a long journey, following this acronym:

• Top-up: Make sure you have enough fuel or electric charge, oil and screen wash before setting off.
• Rest: Take a minimum 15 minute break every two hours behind the wheel to avoid fatigue and get a good night’s rest before travelling.
• Inspect: Check your lights, tyre pressure and tread, and for any obvious vehicle issues.
• Prepare: Plan your route, check the weather and pack essentials including a phone charger, snacks and water in case of delays.

More information about making a safe journey can be found here.