Security cordon at Bok Test
Thu, 28 Aug 2008 09:41
Rugby supporters are promised a safer, more vibey and relaxed experience at Coca-Cola Park in Johannesburg on Saturday - for the Tri-Nations Test between South Africa and Australia - although they are urged by authorities to get there as early as possible as new security procedures are to be used for the first time.
While some cynics will suggest Peter de Villiers and his Springboks need extra protection from the angry mobs of supporters, authorities have revealed a new security cordon that will be deployed to make the supporters' visit to the stadium an enjoyable occasion.
A higher level of Metro Police presence - including helicopters, dogs, mounted police and 200 extra officers - and a widened security perimeter through which only those with a match ticket or a parking ticket will be allowed to pass will make for a whole new rugby experience.
"There will be an outer traffic cordon manned by Metro Police - only parking ticket holders and residents will be allowed into the area," said general manager of operations, Ricky Meyer.
"It is a fairly large area stretching as far as the Ponte Building on the North and the Railway track on the South.
"Those who do not have a valid parking ticket are advised not to drive to the stadium, but to rather use the Park-and-Ride facilities which will be running from Bezhuidenhout Park, Wits West Campus and Wemmer Pan from 11am at a cost of ZAR20.00 per person.
"Those who do have a valid parking ticket are asked to add an extra hour onto their normal trip to counteract traffic congestion. If you don't have a parking ticket don't even come near the stadium as you'll have to park a kilometre away and will have a long walk."
The new protocols are being put into place as Stadium management move towards the arrangements that will be in use for next year's visit of the British and Irish Lions as well the 2009 Confederation Cup and 2010 World Cup.
Meyer said that once inside the precinct rugby supporters would experience a transformed day out.
"It's going to be much more enjoyable for people," he said.
"There'll be beer gardens and entertainment and those who get there early will have a very relaxed time."
However, some would say the day would be a lot more pleasant if the Boks can end their current losing streak - having lost four of their five Tri-Nations matches, including the last three.
