Traffic warning as march takes place in Derby in support of DCFC
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Visitors to Derby city centre are being warned that a number of roads are to be closed as fans of Derby County take to the streets in support of the club.
The march is due begin at Derby Market Place at 11.30am on Sunday (30 Jan) before making its way through the city to Pride Park Stadium.
A significant number of people are expected to take part in the march and there is likely to be significant traffic disruption in the city centre – and around Pride Park prior to the 1.30pm kick off.
PC Roger Brown QPM, the dedicated footballing police officer for Derby County, said: “Sunday’s march is expected to attract a significant number of people and we have been working closely with supporters’ groups, the club and city council to ensure that everyone is able to make their voice heard in a safe manner.
“In order to ensure the safety of those taking part, and all those travelling through Derby in the morning, some road closures will be put in place.
“This will have a significant impact on traffic with potentially long delays due to the length of time it will take for the group to walk to the ground.
“There is a comprehensive policing plan in place to deal with any incidents that may arise, however, I am confident that all the supporters who are taking part will show the very best of the club and make that all important difference once the match kicks off at Pride Park.”
Cllr Chris Poulter, Leader of Derby City Council, said: “Great interest in the situation surrounding Derby County continues to be generated amongst supporters, residents and other interested groups as the issues are yet to be resolved.
"We expect significant numbers of people to gather in the City Centre before beginning to march in support of the club, to the ground before the game against Birmingham City FC on Sunday afternoon.
"Public safety is a priority and If you’re travelling to or within Derby city centre, we would ask that if faced with disruption / delays you please act responsibly and patiently to help keep everyone across the city safe. Planning ahead and allowing extra time in case of travel disruption would help to avoid conflict and help us to look after each other.
"Although many Covid restrictions have been lifted, we would ask that safety measures such as safe distancing where possible and use of face coverings are considered in particular on public transport out respect for other passengers.”
Regular updates will be posted from the @DCFCPolice Twitter account throughout the day as well as from the main @DerbysPolice account.
There will be rolling road-blocks on the following roads from 11.30am:
- Morledge
- Cockpit island
- Pride Parkway
- Riverside Road
- Royal Way