Arrive early for Sunderland's England game, football fans urged

A capacity crowd is set to be in attendance at the Stadium of Light next Friday as England take on Australia from 7.45pm.

Tens of thousands of people are expected in the city, including first-time visitors.

Sunderland City Council has been working with Sunderland AFC and community partners ahead of the day, working on things including advice on the best routes into the city.

They are also working on information on traffic restrictions, where best to park and the best public transport options to get to and from the match, including details of the park and ride scheme in place.

Sunderland City Council’s Portfolio Holder for Public Health, Wellness and Culture, Coun John Kelly, said. “Every England supporter will be looking forward to this match, particularly those lucky enough to have tickets for the game in Sunderland, and we want to make the occasion as memorable and enjoyable as possible.

“This obviously includes making their journey to and from the game as easy and stress-free as possible, with a gentle reminder to set off early on their journeys so they have time to enjoy our city centre and visit the Fan Zone at the Stadium of Light before and after the match.”

Construction work for the new bridge over the River Wear means there will be some roadworks in operation around the city, but traffic plans are in place to minimise disruption, with more information available at www.newwearcrossing.co.uk.

Motorists are advised that one lane in each direction on the A1231, Wessington Way, will be closed to traffic with speed limits in operation, while the Castletown Way junction is closed except for a left turn in for traffic travelling eastbound on the A1231.

People travelling into the city may also want to avoid ongoing roadworks in Pallion, where European Way is closed with diversions and temporary traffic lights in operation.

There will be increased Metro services between Newcastle and Sunderland after 4pm, and continuing after the match to make sure the large crowds can get away quickly.

Roads immediately surrounding the stadium will be closed to all traffic on the day, and there are no vehicle pick up or drop off areas on, or near to the site.

There is no public parking available on the stadium complex, with parking immediately around the Stadium of Light also extremely restricted. Residential streets in the vicinity of the Stadium of Light are also subject to parking permit restrictions.

Sunderland City Council has a number of car parks in operation across the city, with spaces available at sites including St Mary’s and Sunniside secure car parks.