Sunderland fans to be escorted from Newcastle Central for Tyne-Wear derby | OneFootball

Police have confirmed Sunderland supporters travelling to Sunday’s Tyne-Wear derby will be escorted from Newcastle Central Station to St James’ Park as part of a major safety operation for the midday kick-off.

Planning has been under way for months with both clubs and partners including Northumbria Police, Newcastle and Sunderland City Councils, Nexus, British Transport Police, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service and the North East Ambulance Service.

The main police-supported escort for away fans arriving by rail will leave Central Station at 10.15am. Those arriving later could face delays if further escorts are required, and risk missing the start, so supporters are urged to reach the station before 10.15am.

Inside the station, officers and event staff will direct fans to a designated gathering point before departure. The escort does not affect club coaches, which will arrive directly at St James’ Park.

Public transport across the region will be extremely busy on Sunday morning, with Metro and rail services running a standard Sunday timetable. Supporters should allow extra time and expect queues.

Because of engineering works, there are no direct trains to Newcastle from Durham or Darlington, with a limited rail-replacement service in operation. Drivers should also expect road closures around Central Station, St James Boulevard and Barrack Road.

A significantly increased police presence will operate across Newcastle city centre and around the ground. Officers have urged cooperation to keep disruption to a minimum and warned of zero tolerance for disorder, with offenders facing prosecution and football banning orders alongside extra patrols in both city centres.

Source: Sunderland Echo