Extravaganza orgnisers hope to beat traffic problems

Mar 25 2010 by Eva Ketley, North Wales Weekly News

THE organisers of Llandudno’s Victorian Extravaganza say they are bending over backwards to minimise traffic chaos caused by the Maesdu Bridge closure.

The May Bank Holiday event brings an estimated 30,000 people into the resort and there are fears the West Shore bridge rebuilding work will cause massive traffic tailbacks.

But Extravaganza chairman Greg Robbins is hopeful that a new parade route and close cooperation with the police and county council will see disruption minimised.

“The team has faced a number of challenges this year in putting on what we believe to be the best show of its type in the UK,” he said.

“We have had to work closely with North Wales Police and Conwy County Council to minimise the impact of this important event to the town due to the Maesdu Bridge closure, and this has resulted in a new parade route this year.”

And the event’s coordinator Andrew Scarratt commented: “We know how much the parade is loved by visitors and locals alike and every effort is being made to minimise disruption.

“The opportunity to present a different appearance also helps rejuvenate the feel of the parade and feature new areas of the town.

“The route this year will start from Clonmel Street, proceeding along South and North Parades, Gloddaeth Street and Deganwy Avenue, before returning to Lloyd Street to finish in the main arena at the junction with Mostyn Street.”

He said the Extravaganza was looking forward to its most successful year yet.

“This year will build on the success of last year’s event and will see a varied mixture of authentic Victorian exhibits including Professor Voltini's Electrocution Show, steam-driven and old time rides complete with a section of modern fairground to cater for all ages and tastes.

“This, mixed with an excellent selection of street and stage performances over the three days, superb steam engines, veteran vehicles and fantastic fairground organs in various locations around the beautiful Victorian town of Llandudno, will provide a vibrant experience for visitors and residents alike,” he added.

More information can be found at victorian-extravaganza.co.uk or is available from secretary Daive Mann on 01492 872688.