Comprehensive Policing Plan For First Merseyside Derby At New Hill Dickinson Stadium

The first Merseyside Derby will be held at the Hill Dickinson Stadium this weekend and a comprehensive policing plan is in place to ensure fans enjoy the match safely.

Everton host neighbours Liverpool on Sunday 19 April at 2pm with just under 53,000 supporters expected to attend the sold out Premier League match.

As ever, we have been working with both clubs, as well as supporters’ groups and Liverpool City Council, for months to help plan for the event and make sure it’s an enjoyable and memorable occasion.

We will use a variety of policing tactics including highly visible police patrols as well as less visible measures such as plain-clothes officers. Our officers will treat all supporters in a firm, fair and friendly way. However, criminality will never be tolerated and anyone who breaks the law will be dealt with swiftly.

Chief Inspector Kev Chatterton said: "It’s always an exciting fixture in the footballing calendar when our two historic clubs face each other, but this is particularly special with it being the first Merseyside Derby to be held at Everton’s new Hill Dickinson Stadium.

“As with any game, a comprehensive and appropriate policing operation has been put in place ahead of the match. To help achieve this, we have been planning for months with both clubs, as well as Liverpool City Council and transport partners.

"It will be a busy operation around the stadium and we hope that fans attending the match will act as ambassadors for their clubs.

“I want to take this opportunity to remind fans to plan your journey and give yourself plenty of time to get to the stadium.

“Road closures will be in place and strict parking measures will be enforced as with every fixture. More officers will be in the area before and during the match to help Liverpool City Council enforce parking restrictions.

“As with any large event, we remind supporters to be vigilant, trust their instincts and report any suspicious or unusual activity.

“We hope everyone has a fantastic and memorable time and we encourage everyone to be behave responsibly.”