Plan Ahead for Ipswich Derby This Sunday
Members of the public are reminded to plan their travel in advance for this weekend’s highly anticipated derby between Ipswich Town and Norwich City at Portman Road.
Match Details:
- Date & Kick-off: Sunday 5 October, 12:00pm
- Attendance: Sold out, with just under 30,000 spectators expected
- Turnstiles & Bars Open: 10:30am
For the safety of all fans, bag searches will be in operation, and supporters are encouraged to arrive early to ease congestion at entry points.
Stadium Access & Road Restrictions
- Access to Portman Road and Sir Alf Ramsey Way will be restricted before, during, and after the match.
- Spaces at the Portman Road Car Park will be extremely limited.
- From 10:30am until kick-off, and for approximately 30 minutes after the final whistle, Princes Street (Commercial Road → Chalon Street) will be restricted to away ticket holders only. Alternative routes will be provided for other vehicles and pedestrians.
Home Fan Entry:
- East Stand: Portman Road via club shop corner
- South Stand: New car park area (no access from Portman Road)
- West & North Stands: Sir Alf Ramsey Way
Away Fan Entry:
- By train: Walk along Princes Street from the station
- By coach: Exit car park via walkway onto Princes Street
- By car or on foot: Access Portman Road only from its junction with Princes Street
Away Supporter Pub: The Station Hotel, opposite Ipswich railway station, is the official away supporters’ venue (5–10 minute walk to the ground).
Public Transport & Travel Advice
- Public transport may experience disruption; fans are advised to check with operators for service updates.
- Ipswich railway station will be busier than usual. Greater Anglia will run additional trains to accommodate away supporters.
- Those travelling into Ipswich town centre should allow extra time and note road closures. Alternative parking is available across the town.
Police Statement
Chief Inspector Matt Breeze said:
“This is one of the biggest games of the season. Our policing operation will be larger than most other matches, and officers will be visible to ensure a safe and enjoyable matchday experience for everyone. We encourage patience and respect across the town.”
He added that dispersal powers may be used if necessary to deal with any anti-social behaviour, but the focus remains on keeping fans safe and enjoying the game. Officers will be on patrol across Ipswich town centre and are available to assist with any queries.
Coordination & Safety
Suffolk and Norfolk Constabularies have worked closely with both clubs in planning the fixture. The policing operation will be supported by colleagues from across the eastern region, the British Transport Police, and the Metropolitan Police Mounted Branch.
The public is thanked in advance for their patience and understanding regarding any disruption caused by the match-day arrangements.