PSNI Chief Inspector Tony Callaghan.
Police in Derry are putting the final touches to plans to support a safe and orderly “MTV Crashes” event in the city this weekend.
PSNI Chief Inspector Tony Callaghan, the Foyle Area Commander, said the safety of all attending or travelling to or from the event was a priority.
Ten thousand music fans are expected to attend each night.
He added: “We have met with Derry City Council and the event organisers to share in the planning process. I am confident that in the spirit of the cooperation that developed over the City of Culture and the Radio One Big Weekend, we will have another successful, and safe, event for this city.”
Ticketing and access to the Ebrington site, as well as public safety within it, will be directed by the City Council and MTV.
CI Callaghan added: “Police do have a role in aspects such as ensuring the licensing laws are complied with and that any attempts to sell or use illegal drugs will be controlled.
“Among the resources available to me is a passive drugs dog that will be used to detect any illegal drugs that are taken onto the site.
“It is important for people to realise they will not be admitted to the site if they are under the influence of alcohol, and it is a condition of access that people agree to personal searches.
“We have had reports in recent times of fake tickets being circulated. I am informed that anyone who did not obtain a ticket through an official supplier runs the risk of being turned away.”
“Park and stride” facilities will be in place for the two evenings.
These are at the Foyle College site on the former Clooney Army base, Limavady Road . City centre car parks will be open until 1.00am on the Saturday and Sunday.
Anyone dropping off or collecting concert-goers by car or private hire bus is urged to use the “park and stride” facilities.
There will be no drop-off or collection points at the entrances to the Ebrington site.
Browning Drive will be closed to all except residents and accredited concert vehicles.
Through traffic on Limavady Road should proceed with caution, and police are advising that between 10.30pm and 11.30pm motorists should seek alternatives routes via the new Foyle Bridge or Crescent Link.
CI Callaghan said police would have a presence in other parts of the city during the events.
He added Road policing officers would also be monitoring routes to and from the city and would be checking for motoring offences, including drunken driving and excessive speed.
He concluded: “Our experience of the big cultural and musical events of the past few years has been that they have passed off peacefully and safely. My aim is to help ensure that this event is just as safe and peaceful.”
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