Heavy duty road blocks would intercept speeding vehicles. Centenary Stand pinpointed as high risk
The home of Liverpool FC is to be transformed into Fortress Anfield with an intensive programme of anti-terrorism measures. Specifically they are designed to prevent fans being attacked by vehicles, as seen in incidents in London, Paris, Nice and Barcelona this year.
The club’s famous Paisley Square, Centenary Stand and Anfield Road end are earmarked for the most intensive counter terrorism controls, including heavy duty bollards to prevent vehicle access, so called Jersey barriers and an earth bund on Anfield Road, close to the area where visiting fans are accommodated in the stadium.
A planning application, submitted to Liverpool City Council, says the area around the recently extended Centenary Stand has been identified as a particular security risk.
A report detailing the plans says the entrances to the Centenary Stand area are a main point of fan convergence, and there is a risk that a vehicle could gain access to fans entering or leaving the stadium via this entrance. The introduction of bollards would intercept vehicles travelling towards the entrances from directions where speed could be increased.
Katie Daniels, a consultant from specialist company Turley, said the proposed measures follow recent discussions with the Counter Terrorism Unit.
Daniels said: “The proposed measures are required on the advice of the CTU to prevent vehicles driving at speed towards stadium and pedestrian areas.
“The proposed development provides discreet and well designed measures to maximise the safety of those visiting the stadium. The measures are simple and effective in preventing vehicles travelling at speed towards the stadium.”
She said the proposals reflect the club’s commitment and intention to create a safe and accessible destination for all. Discussions with the CTU have prompted the proposed measures to ensure the ongoing safety of staff and visitors.