Principality Stadium Manager Mark Williams has issued a reminder to rugby supporters with tickets to watch Wales’ RBS 6 Nations match against Scotland to plan ahead and arrive early to avoid missing the kick off this Saturday (13 February) at 4.50pm.

DFP – MPU – Promo – Centre

As the countdown continues to the big event, the stadium manager wants all supporters to be aware of enhanced security checks at the turnstiles and has advised fans to leave large bags at home, where possible, to avoid further hold-up on entry.

A capacity crowd is expected for the first international at Principality Stadium, with thousands more expected to watch the match in the city centre.

As the stadium’s event team make their final preparations for the 2016 Championship, the stadium manager has urged supporters to take responsibility for their own planning. He said:

“Cardiff will be busy on matchday and those coming to the stadium should plan to arrive early to allow extra time to get through the turnstiles. Where possible, leave rucksacks and larger bags at home to avoid further delays. If you arrive at the stadium shortly before kick-off, be aware we give no assurance you will be in your seat in time for the start of the game.”

The advice has been released as part of a joint campaign with South Wales Police, the Wales Extremism and Counter Terrorism Unit, the Sports Ground Safety Authority and Cardiff City Council following recent world events.

While South Wales Police stress there is no specific threat to Cardiff, Principality Stadium joined other city stadia as part of the Safety Advisory Group in a review of spectator safety for major events.

Mr Williams added: “The safety and enjoyment of spectators on a matchday is our top priority as we work with South Wales Police and all relevant parties on the Safety Advisory Group to uphold the robust security measures that exist across the city.

“While the majority of security measures are not in the public domain, it is important to make stadium visitors aware of key areas where they can assist us in maintaining a safe and secure stadium – getting in early and leaving large bags at home where possible will avoid unnecessary disappointment on matchday.”

Speaking of the collaboration, South Wales Police Inspector Andy Smith said: “Following a meeting earlier this month, the Cardiff Safety Advisory Group has supported proposals by the city’s stadiums to enhance security checks.

“With immediate effect this will mean if spectators bring a bag it might be searched before they can enter the four main stadia– the Cardiff City Stadium, the BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park, the SSE SWALEC Stadium and Principality Stadium. While there is no specific threat to South Wales, it is important that we all remain vigilant. In Cardiff, we have a long tradition of partnership working and we hope the public will support these extra measures which are designed to keep Cardiff safe.”

Cardiff Council and local travel providers have published the necessary information for supporters to arrange travel plans to and from the venue in advance.

Listen to advice from Stadium Management here

2016 RBS 6 NATIONS AT PRINCIPALITY STADIUM

Round 2: 13/02/2016 16:50 Wales v Scotland, Principality Stadium – SOLD-OUT
Round 3: 26/02/2016 20:05 Wales v France, Principality Stadium – SOLD-OUT
Round 5: 19/03/2016 14:30 Wales v Italy, Principality Stadium – SOLD-OUT