As a showgrounds, Lisburn Park opened its doors to the public for the first time last year and the move to the new venue was hailed a success by exhibitors and visitors alike. However, there were some teething problems, mainly relating to traffic entering and leaving the 65-acre site, which, for exhibitors at least, have been addressed.

“We have made some subtle layout changes to the showgrounds, primarily to improve the flow and the overall experience for visitors,” said the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society’s chief executive, Colin McDonald. “A traffic management plan for the event includes a provision for a new exhibitor and livestock entrance which will help with traffic flow but we would strongly encourage visitors to consider public transport.”