Exit routes

Getting all of the cars in is easy; getting them out is a lot harder. They arrive in a steady stream, but they all tend to want to go at about the same time and they all think they should go before everyone else.

If at all possible make several exit routes available, but only as long as the traffic from those additional exits can run directly out to main roads leading away from the site. If you open three exits, which all lead to a small roundabout half a mile down the road, you will simply move the delay from the manned car park exits to a free-for-all at that roundabout, as well as inconveniencing local residents, businesses and through traffic.

Consult with the police about this and take their advice. For a really big event, introducing a temporary one-way system will help to keep the traffic flowing and get the cars out simply and cleanly. If this is going to be introduced, make sure that you have plenty of directional signs erected at the exits (see Chapter 16, ‘Sign posting’).