Traffic restrictions put in place for Bishop Daly's funeral

Local people are being advised that there will be a number of traffic restrictions will be put in place ahead of the funeral mass for former Bishop of Derry Dr Edward Daly.

Large numbers are expected to attend today's service which will take place at 3.30pm in St Eugene’s Cathedral, Derry, including political and church leaders travelling to the city to pay their final respects to one of the city’s most iconic figures.

Mass goers and regular users should note that the William Street Car Park will be closed to the public from 9pm this evening through to 6pm tomorrow night.

Alternative parking will be available to members of the public wishing to attend and drivers are advised that they can use public car parks located at Strand Road, Queen’s Quay,  Victoria Market, Foyle Street and Bishop Street as well as parking at the Foyle Arts Centre, Quayside Shopping Centre, and Foyleside Shopping Centre.

Some traffic restrictions will remain in place before and during the service to reduce congestion in and around the Cathedral area and people are asked to follow directions from stewards and the PSNI. Drivers are also asked to be mindful of blocking entranceways and restricting access to residential areas to ensure easy access for emergency services if required.

A spokesperson for Derry City and Strabane District Council said:

“We would encourage people hoping to attend today’s service to expect a minor level of disruption and leave extra time for their journey to the service. Anyone who regularly uses the route is asked to try to use alternative routes during this time to help reduce congestion.

“Signage will be in place to direct those attending the funeral and we would encourage people to use public car parks and be mindful that places will be limited close to the Cathedral. We would like to thank people in advance for their co-operation and we hope that traffic disruption will be kept to a minimum.”

People are advised to arrive early at the Cathedral for the mass which begins at 3.30pm due to the large numbers anticipated. Burial will take place following the service in the Cathedral grounds.