The music has started in Co Meath at the Slane concert with supporting acts beginning the day-long build up to the appearance of the main act - U2. An estimated 80,000 fans have travelled to the gig for the first of U2’s two two concerts on home soil since 1997.
With Northern Irish band Relish kicking off the day at 12.30, they will be followed by Dublin’s JJ72, Kelis from the US, Britain’s Coldplay and the infamous Red Hot Chilli Peppers before U2 take over at about 8 p.m.
AA Roadwatch has said traffic is heavy but flowing steadily. They have advised motorists to follow the diversions which are clearly indicated on the route.
Those travelling to the concert have been advised to use public transport or private coaches. Dublin Bus is providing 200 buses, departing every 20 minutes from O'Connell Street between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. and returning immediately after the event.
Following consultation with the Gardaí the following arrangements have been made for people travelling to the show today.
Approach routes to Slane:
Gates open 11 a.m. Concert commences 12.30 p.m.
Plan your approach to the venue based on the following:
- From Dublin (south, west & North) follow N3 to Navan and follow N51 from Navan to Slane.
- From Dublin (East & North) follow N2 to Slane.
- From Drogheda follow N51 to Slane or from Collon follow N2 to Slane.
- From Northern Ireland follow N2 via Collon to Slane or travel to Drogheda & take N51 to Slane.
- People with impaired mobility should approach from Navan via the N51. Car parking available beside concert site.
- Please consult signs on the approach roads to the venue for directions on the best routes to take.
The weather forecast for the Slane area in north Leinster is for a dry and calm night though concert goers are advised to bring warm clothes.