AS THOUSANDS of festival goers prepare to descend on the Isle of Wight action has been taken to prevent traffic chaos.

Organisers of the Isle of Wight Festival have joined forces with police and the council to ensure motorists are kept moving despite the sudden surge of visitors next weekend for the world-famous music event that will see the Red Hot Chilli Peppers among the many stars performing.

Improvements have been made to event car parks - after the chaos caused by heavy rain two years ago - while traffic from the Red Funnel and Wightlink will be separated.

Although some delays are inevitable with the amount of extra traffic on the roads, it is hoped these measures will minimise any disruption to residents on the island.

The main route for festival traffic from the Red Funnel terminal at East Cowes will be up York Avenue and along Whippingham Road, where it will turn right onto East Cowes Road and into the res festival car park.

Vehicles travelling from the Wightlink terminal at Fishbourne will be directed right on to Kite Hill, through Wootton, up Lushington Hill and right at the Racecourse roundabout and the left into the Wight festival car park.

Council bosses are also reminding people that the one way system along Fairlee Road will be put into place from lunchtime on June 11.

Temporary night closures will also be put into place between Racecourse roundabout and Staplers Road after the event finishes each night, starting June 13, for the safety of those leaving on foot.

Councillor Shirley Smart, executive member for economy and tourism, said: “The council has been working closely with the event organisers and its partners to ensure another successful festival.

“We are all keeping a close eye on the weather and hoping for a sunny weekend for the thousands of island visitors and residents who will be attending the event.”