Galway Bay fm newsroom - Early morning traffic restictions came into force from 4 this morning (Thurs) as part of strict security ahead of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's visit to Galway today.
William and Kate will begin their Galway schedule at NUIG before traveling to the city centre and a local GAA club.
Over 250 Irish and international journalists have gathered at the press centre here at NUI Galway as part of the coverage of this first Irish trip by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
There is a large Garda presence as the city prepares to welcome the Royal couple as part of their first official trip to Ireland.
Various traffic restrictions are in place around the city this morning until lunchtime with no vehicles permitted access to William Street, Shop Street, Abbeygate Street, High Street and Mainguard Street.
There are also restrictions at Flood Street, Cross Street, Middle Street and St. Augustine Street, as well as Bridge Street and Lombard Street.
Pedestrians will have restricted access at Shop Street, High Street and Mainguard Street until 1pm - however no premises will be closed today and Gardai say the city centre remains open for business.
In Salthill as the Royals visit a local GAA club, traffic restrictions will be in place at Dr. Mannix Road until 2pm.
William and Kate have already visited key landmarks in Dublin, Kildare and Meath since they touched down at Dublin Airport on Tuesday.
The visit is coming at a crucial time post Brexit, with the trip described as an opportunity to build a lasting friendship with the Irish people.
