Motorists in Belfast have been cautioned about potential traffic disruptions on Thursday, as hundreds of St Gallen football fans from Switzerland are set to parade through the city. The fans are expected to march from Shaftesbury Square to Windsor Park for the UEFA Conference League match against Larne Football Club.
The parade is scheduled to take place during rush hour, adding to the already existing traffic congestion in the city. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) anticipates a crowd of over 5,000 spectators at the game, with up to 2,000 St Gallen supporters in attendance.
To avoid delays and congestion, the PSNI is advising supporters, commuters, and shoppers to plan their journeys in advance and allow for extra travel time. Areas likely to be affected by traffic include Shaftesbury Square, Lisburn Road, Donegall Road, as well as the M1 and Boucher Road areas before and after the match.
Although technically a home game for Larne, the match will be held at Windsor Park as Larne’s Inver Park does not meet UEFA standards for hosting Conference League games. The PSNI spokesperson emphasized the importance of good behavior from all attendees, reminding them to uphold the reputation of their respective teams.
St Gallen, hailing from eastern Switzerland, has been a fixture in the Swiss Super League for the past ten years. In a similar fashion to Larne, they have yet to secure a win in their UEFA league matches.
Additionally, motorists are advised to avoid Belfast Road in Comber between Glen Link and Ballyrainey Road due to a crash, with police recommending alternative routes for those traveling in the area.
With the anticipation of a large crowd and possible traffic delays, it is crucial for all individuals in the vicinity to plan accordingly and make necessary adjustments to their travel schedules. As the excitement builds for the upcoming match, ensuring a smooth and safe experience for all involved is paramount.
