Down Rally 2025: What You Need to Know About the Road Closures

The Down Rally 2025 is all set to take the roads of Northern Ireland by storm on July 19th, 2025. Organised by the Rathfriland Motor Club Ltd, this much-anticipated event will transform certain roads in County Down into dynamic race tracks. Here's a breakdown of what this means for local residents and road users.

Key Dates and Times

• Event Date: Saturday, July 19th, 2025
• Road Closure Times:
  • Thornhill Stages: 08:00 - 17:00
  • Hamiltons Folly Stages: 08:30 - 18:00
  • Beechgrove Stages: 10:45 - 17:00

Roads Affected The rally will see roads like Hillhead Road, Shanrod Road, and others in County Down temporarily closed. Full details of the specific routes involved are listed in the official schedules.

Traffic and Safety Measures During the event, the right of way for regular traffic will be suspended. Only race officials, marshals, emergency vehicles, and local residents (under specific conditions) will have access. To ensure safety, multiple steps will be taken:

• Roads will be barricaded at least 10 meters from the course.
• Notice boards will inform about the temporary suspension of the right of way.
• Marshals will be stationed at key points to manage the flow and ensure compliance.

Public Notice Requirements To keep the local community informed, the event promoter is mandated to:

• Display placard notices around the neighbourhood at least 7 days prior to the race.
• Publish advertisements in two local newspapers in the weeks leading up to the event.

Insurance and Legal Coverage The event promoter is required to secure insurance policies to cover potential liabilities, including bodily injuries and property damage. These policies ensure coverage up to £100 million per incident, with specific benefits lined out for various scenarios.

What Not to Do It's crucial to adhere to the regulations to avoid legal issues. Offences include:

• Wilfully obstructing or interfering with the race.
• Disobeying police or marshal instructions.
• Unauthorized presence on closed roads.
• Keeping animals or vehicles on specified roads without permission.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure the Down Rally 2025 runs smoothly and safely. Whether you're a rally enthusiast or a local resident, understanding these road closures and safety measures will help you navigate the day with ease. Stay informed, stay safe, and enjoy the excitement of the rally!