Driving activity rises again, to 114%
[26 June 2020] As restrictions continue to ease, traffic flows are growing again this week. Our analysis of the Apple mobility data shows that Saturday (20th) saw vehicle traffic at 14% above the baseline norm. As is expected, figures for the following days were slightly reduced as poor weather and Father’s Day compelled more people to stay at home. Throughout the week, as in pre-Covid analysis, traffic levels build steadily towards the weekend. Commuters will undoubtedly experience continued lighter traffic volumes as schools remain closed, affecting morning rush hours dramatically.
Driving activity saw an increase of 4% from the previous week, as the retail sector had its first full week of trading since March. The 7-day moving average places driving activity at 103% of the pre-Covid baseline.
People movement in retail and recreation areas has also increased this week, with grocery and pharmacy locations at 91% of the baseline norm, weekly growth of 4%. Once again, poor weather is likely to blame for reduced footfall at parks and beaches, however audiences still remain out in high numbers, reaching 110% of the baseline norm.
Despite an announcement from the NI Executive permitting retailers to reopen from 12th June, many large stores and supermarkets waited several days to welcome shoppers, with major stores including Primark in Belfast remaining closed until Thursday 18th June. This week’s data therefore shows the first full week of trading, and the impact this has had on footfall through town centres and high streets. Reassuringly, pedestrian activity in retail and recreation areas grew by 14% on the previous week, reaching 56% of the norm by 21st June.
Apple data analysis for Belfast also shows audiences are on the move across the city, with driving, walking and public transport all increasing across the last week. TomTom traffic analysis for Belfast also reflects this, with continued traffic build up throughout the day, with an evening peak now occurring around 4pm. Morning traffic figures are lower due to the lack of school traffic. Moreover, since the reopening of non-essential shops and businesses, traffic volumes have increased, with week on week growth evident.
