NSW: Bushfires could reduce NYE numbers

AAP General News (Australia)
12-30-2001
NSW: Bushfires could reduce NYE numbers

Eds: repeating, changing keyword



SYDNEY, Dec 30 AAP - Transport difficulties caused by Sydney's horror bushfires could
put a dampener on New Year's Eve celebrations.

A City of Sydney spokesman said bushfire road closures could impact on the number of
people choosing to celebrate in the city.

"We wouldn't be surprised if there was a smaller crowd purely because some of the transport
difficulties some might face, but all our planning is still for a million people around
the harbour," he told AAP.

The spokesman said today's smoke haze was unlikely to affect the fireworks extravaganza.

"We're keeping an eye on the situation but we don't expect the smoke to impact on us at all."

Road closures for the celebrations begin at midday tomorrow as the Cahill Expressway shuts down.

Further road closures through the north of the CBD, the Rocks, Circular Quay, Millers
Point and much of Pyrmont will take effect from 6pm and be in place until 5am on January
1.

A Transport NSW spokesman said partygoers were urged to leave their car at home and
make use of expanded public transport services.

But he also asked people to be patient instead of heading for the trains the minute
the fireworks finished.

"We're encouraging people to be patient and not rush the train stations immediately
after the fireworks," he said.

AAP rcg/gl

KEYWORD: EVE TRANSPORT (REPEATING)

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