Extra police patrols planned as Parklife weekend returns to Greater Manchester

Parklife 2025

Greater Manchester Police will increase patrols across the region this weekend as Parklife returns and several major events take place.

Officers will support security operations and help manage traffic around key venues.

Police are preparing for one of the busiest weekends of the year, with Parklife returning to Heaton Park and thousands of visitors expected across Greater Manchester.

The festival takes place on Saturday and Sunday, while Take That begin a three night residency at the Etihad Stadium on Friday. Other events include performances by Lily Allen and The B52s at the AO Arena and the Women’s Cricket World Cup match between India and South Africa at Emirates Old Trafford.

Greater Manchester Police said officers will be working alongside event security teams at Parklife and helping to manage transport and traffic around the venue.

Additional neighbourhood officers will also be deployed across Manchester and surrounding areas.

Project Servator patrols have already been carried out at the festival site and on public transport networks. These patrols are designed to deter crime and provide reassurance to the public.

Chief Superintendent Andy Sidebotham said, “Our priority is to protect the public, support local communities, and maintain a safe environment throughout the weekend.”

Police said theft was the most commonly reported crime at Parklife last year, particularly involving mobile phones, and attendees are being urged to keep personal belongings secure.

Transport for Greater Manchester expects more than 250,000 journeys linked to events taking place across the region.