Police and partners well prepared for 'biblical' Oasis gigs at Heaton Park

Greater Manchester Police will be working with numerous partners to ensure Oasis’ homecoming shows pass by safely at nearby Heaton Park, starting from tomorrow (Friday).

Planning has been underway within GMP over the past six months, and a highly visible policing operation will be in place in Heaton Park across the five gigs.

The local legends will play five gigs in Manchester on 11, 12, 16, 19 and 20 July.

Over 300,000 people are due to attend over the five homecoming shows in what promises to be a momentous occasion for the city.

It has been a busy start to the summer already at Heaton Park with a Catfish and The Bottlemen gig and Parklife Festival taking place on the site.

Planning has been underway within GMP over the past six months alongside partners at Manchester City Council, Transport for Greater Manchester, North West Ambulance Service, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and many more.

Efforts are underway to minimise disruption in the surrounding areas and the City of Manchester.

If you plan to use public transport, please plan your journeys to and from the event in advance.

Expect busier journeys and be patient.

Alternative routes, including a clearly signposted walking route back to Manchester city centre, will be available.

This may help reduce road congestion and could be a quicker option.

For the latest travel advice, visit the TfGM website here

Officers will be present around the Heaton Park site, working with event security staff to prevent crime and disorder.

Off-site patrols will also assist with traffic management and policing in the surrounding areas and the city centre.

Assistant Chief Constable Matt Boyle said: “Greater Manchester Police is highly experienced at supporting the safety of large-scale events at Heaton Park, such as the annual Parklife festival, which passed without incident in June.

“Our priority is to ensure everyone’s safety. We have worked closely with event organisers and partners to make sure the event is safe and enjoyable for those attending, whilst minimising any crime or antisocial behaviour impacts on local residents.

“We will have a large and highly visible policing operation in place in Heaton Park, the city centre and on routes into and out of the venue to help people enjoy the event.

"We also have neighbourhood police officers and staff in place who are dedicated to dealing with local residents’ concerns. 

“Our advice to fans attending is to enjoy yourselves but to remain vigilant, keep your belongings safe and report anything suspicious to police or security staff so we can act on it. 

"Make sure you have planned your journey and are prepared for hot weather. 

“To those who are visiting Manchester but don’t have a ticket, we hope you enjoy the many Oasis attractions in place in the city.”

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