Massive Turnout Expected as Celtic Fans Plan to Celebrate Scottish Premiership Victory in Merchant City and Trongate
The Glasgow City Council is calling on Celtic supporters to steer clear of the planned celebrations by the Green Brigade in Trongate, which are expected to coincide with an Orange Walk, potentially leading to disruptions.
On the heels of their match against St Mirren, where Brendan Rodgers’ team is anticipated to secure the Scottish Premiership trophy, thousands of Celtic supporters are projected to flood the areas of Merchant City and Trongate this Saturday.
The North Curve Celtic from the Green Brigade X faction has taken to social media to promote the event, sharing a graphic that reads: “Trongate Title Party. Saturday, 17 May. After Celtic vs. St. Mirren. Fly the flag,” encouraging fans to join the celebrations.
Last year’s festivities saw 19 arrests and injuries to four police officers as revelers ignited flares and fireworks, climbed traffic lights and bus shelters, and caused damage to storefronts and street fixtures. In response, the Glasgow City Council has issued a public plea, urging fans to avoid the gathering.
The council stated: “We encourage fans from all clubs in Glasgow to celebrate their victories, but we ask everyone, including visitors, to avoid large, disruptive gatherings in Merchant City/Trongate and other public spaces. Such events often lead to public disturbances, impacting local residents and businesses adversely.”
It added, “Damage to property and infrastructure costs the public hundreds of thousands of pounds, funds that could otherwise enhance essential services that benefit everyone. Enjoy the trophy day, but please respect the city and your neighbors by not participating in potentially hazardous and disruptive public gatherings.”
Concerns about potential clashes have been heightened due to approximately 2,500 members of the Orange Order also planning to march through the city in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of VE Day, on the same day Celtic fans celebrate their title win.
Since the cancellation of the Treble Treble bus parade in 2019 due to overcrowding by fans in Gallowgate, trophy celebrations have become a standard practice for Celtic supporters. The proximity of the fans’ celebration to the parade route—about 500 yards apart—has raised concerns about possible conflicts.
The Merchant City Community Council expressed worry about the dual events: “The local residents and businesses near Glasgow Cross are already dreading the disruption from the Celtic vs. St Mirren match. With tens of thousands of Celtic and Orange Lodge supporters expected in the city simultaneously, we face a potentially volatile situation.”
The community council has appealed to city officials and the County Grand Lodge to consider rescheduling the parade to another date to avoid conflicts.
Assistant Chief Constable Mark Sutherland reassured the public, stating: “We are aware of the concerns surrounding the events scheduled for Saturday, 17 May. We are coordinating closely with our partners at Glasgow City Council to ensure minimal disruption and have a comprehensive public safety plan in place.”
He further advised: “While we respect the right to public assembly, everyone must act responsibly to ensure their actions do not negatively affect local businesses or other city dwellers. Please avoid gathering in large groups and be considerate of others. If you plan to visit Glasgow City Centre on this busy day, consider the increased public transport usage and plan your travel accordingly.”
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Hi, I’m Benjamin, a member of the Sherburne County Citizen team. With a passion for writing and a deep interest in current affairs, I thoroughly enjoy bringing you the latest news and trends that affect our daily lives.
