Liverpool is gearing up to host one of the most adrenaline-fuelled motorsports on the planet on Sunday (19 August).
Red Bull Drift Shifters is set to roar onto the waterfront this weekend when part of The Strand will be transformed into a motorsport track which will see 12 of the world’s best drifters battle it out on a course which puts their skills, speed and precision to the test.
The major event has only ever been showcased in New Zealand, and is heading to the city as one of the highlights of the Liverpool 2018 programme, which celebrates a decade since Liverpool’s game-changing year as European Capital of Culture.
The custom-built track will be in the shadow of the iconic Royal Liver Building and as a result, a small number of road closures will be in place from 7pm on Friday 17 August until 6am Monday 20 August. These are:
- The Strand from the junction of James Street to Leeds Street (Leeds Street remains open).
- There will be restrictions on the roads leading off the closed part of The Strand – these will be clearly signposted.
Clearly signed traffic diversion routes will be put in place in advance of the event and access will be maintained for residents who live, and businesses which operate, in the affected areas.
Liverpool ONE Q Park, Albert Dock and Mann Island remain open, with access to them both via Parliament Street.
Access to businesses on Princes Parade and the Isle of Man Ferry terminal will be via Waterloo Road.
Pedestrian access will be kept open where possible, and again, pedestrian diversion routes will be clearly signposted.
Deputy Mayor and Cabinet Member for Culture Tourism and events, Councillor Wendy Simon, said: “Liverpool is no stranger to staging high-profile outdoor events and we hope that people understand that there will always be an element of short-term disruption associated with these activities.
“We work hard with our travel partners and the police to make sure these events do not bring the city to a standstill and effective and clear diversions will be in place – but the advice is for everyone to allow more time for their journey.
“Hosting Drift Shifters is a huge coup for the city – it is set to attract thousands, provide a welcome boost to our local economy and incredible images of the city are going to be beamed across the world which is invaluable when it comes to positioning Liverpool as a must-visit destination to international tourists.”
If anyone has any specific access requirements when the road closures are in place, they can e-mail Culture Liverpool mailto:cultureliverpool@liverpool.gov.uk or telephone 0151 233 2008.
For further information about the event or if you wish to purchase tickets, please go to the www.redbull.co.uk/driftshifters