Police chiefs hit out at Celtic and Council over title party fanzone failure
They fear more major disorder and damage in Glasgow's Merchant City and Trongate areas
Last updated 10th May 2025
Police chiefs are hitting out at Celtic and Glasgow City Council over the failure to set up a fan zone to celebrate the Premiership title next Saturday.
And they fear there will be a repeat of major disruption, damage, violence and other anti-social behaviour with tens of thousands of Celtic supporters expected to descend on Trongate after the trophy is presented at the completion of the final league game o the season against St Mirren.
The force say they had asked the club and the authority to create an organised event. Community leaders had also written to Parkhead chief executive Michael Nicholson after “widespread damage and disruption to residents, premises and businesses.”
There is the added issues of an Orange Order match to celebrate VE Day earlier in the day that will go through the same area.
Assistant Chief Constable Mark Sutherland said: "Our preference was for an organised event or fanzone which would support a title celebration, but cause far less disruption to our communities, reduce the levels of antisocial behaviour witnessed in recent years and improve overall public safety.
"Police Scotland had requested this be considered with our partners, which included Celtic Football Club and Glasgow City Council, as part of planning discussions ahead of the Scottish Premiership trophy presentation on 17 May.
"Unfortunately, this option was not progressed and we, alongside Glasgow City Council, are now working on the assumption that supporters will gather in the Trongate area of Glasgow, as we have seen in previous years.
"We respect the right to public assembly, however we will do all we can to deal with antisocial behaviour and minimise disruption.
"Officers have engaged with local businesses and residents as part of our planning and our response will be proportionate.
"I completely understand that supporters want to celebrate their team's success and enjoy the occasion, but would urge them not to gather in large numbers and to respect the residents, businesses and wider public using the city centre."
We've asked Celtic and Glagow City Council for comment.
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