The Tribune

ALL public schools in New Providence will be closed tomorrow to facilitate activities surrounding the official visit of King Charles III.

The announcement came as the Royal Bahamas Police Force clarified that widespread road closures associated with the royal visit will be temporary, with affected roads reopening as the royal convoy passes.

In a statement, Permanent Secretary Neil Campbell advised public school students are expected to participate in a National Youth Rally at Clifford Park in honour of the King's visit.

The ministry thanked parents, guardians, educators and the wider public for their understanding and cooperation as students participate in the national celebration.

Meanwhile, police clarified that traffic restrictions would not remain in place continuously throughout the day but would be implemented as the royal convoy moves along designated routes.

Once the convoy has passed, affected roads will reopen as conditions permit.

Police said motorists would also be accommodated, where practicable, to access their homes, workplaces and businesses when the King arrives at designated locations.

However, roads immediately surrounding locations being visited by the King will remain closed while he is present, although access along outer perimeter roads will be facilitated where possible.

Officers will be stationed along designated routes to manage traffic and assist motorists.

The clarification follows an announcement that major roads and intersections between Lynden Pindling International Airport, Paradise Island and downtown Nassau will be affected by the royal visit.

Restrictions for the royal convoy are scheduled to begin at 4.20pm tomorrow, with additional closures expected between 5pm and 7pm.

Separately, road closures for the National Youth Rally at Clifford Park will begin at 2pm and remain in effect until the celebration concludes.

West Bay Street between Nassau Street and Chippingham Road will be closed, along with Marcus Bethel Way, Gibbs Lane and sections of Dean Lane. Access to Arawak Cay will also be restricted.

Eastbound motorists travelling along West Bay Street will be diverted south onto Chippingham Road, while westbound traffic will be directed south onto Nassau Street.

No-parking restrictions will also take effect from midnight along several roads surrounding Clifford Park and downtown Nassau.

Police previously announced that traffic restrictions would also be implemented on Wednesday and Thursday, with further details to be released.