Travel advice for seasonal shoppers
Last minute Christmas shoppers and those planning to visit the Boxing Day sales are being advised by the Highways Agency to plan their journeys in advance and keep up to date with the latest road conditions over the festive season.
Stephen Bush, Emergency Planning Manager at the Highways Agency comments,
At this time of the year many parts of the road network can become very busy. This, combined with wintry weather, can cause delays to your journey. That’s why we advise road users to keep themselves informed by listening to local radio stations, checking the weather forecast and, if you are going to a major retail centre, by checking out their website in advance.
Road users can also check the Highways Agency’s Christmas information page for traffic and weather update contact details as well as information about which roads and dates are likely to be busiest.
The Agency also encourages drivers to take some simple steps during winter:
- check your vehicle – fuel and fluid levels, electrics and tyres – before setting out
- be prepared with an emergency kit in your vehicle, including ice-scraper, de-icer, warm clothes and blankets, torch, boots, first aid kit, jump leads, a spade, a road atlas and sunglasses (for the winter glare)
- plan your journeys. Check weather and travel conditions before and during your journey
- if the weather is very severe, consider whether your journey is essential or travel at a different time. In winter, the weather can change quickly so always be prepared for bad weather
- remember that even when roads have been treated with salt, ice can still form, particularly on bends or under overhanging trees
General enquiries
Members of the public should contact the Highways Agency Information Line on 0300 123 5000.
Media enquiries
Journalists should contact the Highways Agency press office on 0844 693 1448 and use the menu to speak to the most appropriate press officer.