MCG bans parking at major concerts to minimise security risk
The MCG is set to ban car parking at major events amidst global discussion on minimising terror threats for crowds at concerts.
Astatement on the Melbourne Cricket Ground website indicates that there will be limited public parking during the AFL season, and no public parking at “major events.”
The MCG and CEO Stuart Fox admitted the changes would affect some fans, but urged event-goers to utilise public transport when attending big events, concerts and sports games.
“Ongoing events both around the world and closer to home clearly demonstrate that we need to minimise the risk of interactions between vehicles and pedestrians, especially in crowded places such as outside the MCG,” said Fox.
“The safety of all MCG visitors is our number one priority, and this update to car parking availability in Yarra Park is a natural progression of the measures that have been implemented both at the MCG and other venues in recent years.”
“Finding a balance between keeping our patrons safe and providing them with a fantastic event experience is a difficult task. We understand that some patrons will be impacted by this decision and we have made arrangements to cater for as many vehicles as possible, in particular for the mobility impaired.”
“Our strong advice to footy fans is to take public transport to the MCG if possible, or find alternative parking in the CBD and surrounding areas.”
The statement also urged fans to stay up to date with theMCG website for updates on parking before heading to any events at the venue.