News from August 2008

‘Drive on the Left’ Sign Installed at Belfast International Airport

Published: 28 August 2008

Visitors to Northern Ireland have been growing steadily in recent years, and to ensure the safety of all who arrive, a sign has been installed at Belfast International Airport to greet visitors and remind them to 'Drive on the left'.

The sign is a Northern Ireland Tourist Board Visitor Servicing Initiative, in partnership with DRD Roads Service and Belfast International Airport.  It has been translated into Spanish, Italian, French, German and Polish, in addition to English.

The majority of visitors arrived in Northern Ireland by air (51%) in 2007, and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board has been pro-active in ensuring these visitors feel welcome and are provided with safety advice.  One more sign is to be installed at Belfast International Airport.

Stephen Bill, Visitor Management Officer with the Northern Ireland Tourist Board said; "With a record number of tourists arriving in Northern Ireland, we want to make sure they have an enjoyable and safe stay."

"In 2007 there were over 2.1 million visitors, and the biggest increase was in European tourists. We need to cater to the needs of all our visitors and so the 'Drive on the Left' sign has been translated into five languages."

Deborah Matchett, of Belfast International Airport added; "We are delighted to have worked alongside the Northern Ireland Tourist Board on this initiative, and with summertime proving our busiest period, the safety of our visitors is of utmost importance.  With even more direct air routes from right across Europe and further afield, we want to provide a high quality of customer care."

Photo caption: Stephen Bill, NITB Visitor Management Officer with Deborah Matchett, Belfast International Airport, standing by the new 'Drive on the Left' sign at Belfast International Airport.