BCP Council warning over busy weekend at Sandbanks

Ahead of a bumper weekend of hot weather and two major events, drivers have been issued with some advice by BCP Council.

Sandpolo and Sandfest music festival are taking place from today and over the weekend, with the forecast hot weather also set to attract visitors to the area.

On Thursday, Poole Police told people that unless they are attending the two ticketed events, they should avoid the area.

A spokesperson said the warning comes after “significant delays” on the hottest day of the month in June.

Read more: How traffic will be managed in Sandbanks during busy weekend

Police warned potential issues this weekend would also be “compounded” by ongoing works being carried out by Wessex Water.

Wessex Water work in Shore Road

Temporary traffic lights on Shore Road will be manually controlled.

Now, a spokesperson for BCP Council said they're 'ready to step up their detailed traffic management strategy'.

This could include closing the road, like they did in 2021, if things became extremely busy.

Drivers – don’t get stuck in a jam this weekend 🚙🚗@SandFestUk and @sandpolouk are on at Sandbanks and with @wessexwater still undertaking major infrastructure work on Shore Rd, please ensure you travel smart and plan your route round the hot spots.#Travel #Sandbanks #Drivers pic.twitter.com/waxInEsVIC

— BCP Council (@BCPCouncil) July 7, 2022

However, a spokesperson advised this would not be "done lightly".

“We know when it’s going to be busy at Sandbanks and with warm weather forecast as well as Sandfest and Sand Polo events taking place this weekend, we’re ready to step up our detailed traffic management strategy.

"This includes monitoring the car parks and using the many electronic signs on approach roads to advise drivers when car parks are full and direct them to alternatives.

Read more: Everything you need to know about this year's Sandfest beach festival

"Ahead of this weekend we also encouraged visitors to check our Beach App, to provide them with live information about car park occupancy and beach busyness.

“Our advice – don’t get stuck in a jam this weekend. With local events and Wessex Water carrying out works on Shore Road, there’s every chance that traffic will be heavy. So, travel smart, plan your route round the hot spots, enjoy our beautiful seafront and make the most of the weather.’’