Everton fans are being advised to make a match-day tactical switch – by leaving the car at home and taking public transport to the brand-new Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The Blues are set to face Brighton on Sunday 24 August at 2pm, and almost 53,000 spectators will be packing out the stadium for the first ever Premier League fixture at the venue.
It’s sure to be a busy Sunday afternoon in the city centre as the Liverpool Celebrates 2025 festival will be taking place at the Pier Head from 1pm-9pm. Thousands of music fans will be enjoying the sunshine and vibes for the ‘pop at the pier’ lineup.
In partnership with Liverpool City Council, Merseytravel, Merseyrail, and local bus operators, a comprehensive transport plan has been developed to support Everton fans in getting to and from the stadium.
Supporters are urged to give themselves plenty of time, plan ahead and make use of the extensive public transport network that includes:
- Rail: Sandhills Station is the closest Merseyrail stop, with additional entrances and crowd management systems in place. Moorfields and Bank Hall stations are also within walking distance and offer alternatives to avoid congestion.
- Bus: Four dedicated shuttle bus services will operate from Liverpool city centre, Bootle, and Kirkby, with park-and-ride options available.
- Ferries: Mersey Ferries will run special matchday shuttle services from Seacombe, with return trips post-match. A special Matchday Ferry Ticket is available – full details can be found on the Mersey Ferries website.
- Walking, Scooter & Cycling: The stadium is easily accessible on foot or by bike from the city centre, with safe walking routes and cycle parking available. Cyclists and scooter riders should dismount within road closures.
To protect local communities and reduce congestion, strict parking controls will be enforced around the stadium:
- A Football Match Parking Zone has been introduced, covering a 30-minute walk radius from the stadium.
- Permit-only parking will be in effect, with enforcement teams active throughout the day.
- No matchday parking is available at the stadium itself. Fans driving into Liverpool are advised to use city centre car parks or key transport hubs and connect via shuttle buses or trains.
- Blue Badge holders can park for as long as they need to in permit parking areas but will need to clearly display their badge, not cause an obstruction on the road and avoid ‘no loading/unloading’ restricted areas . Additional Blue Badge bays have been added on Regent Road for accessible parking. More Blue Badge advice can be found here.
- Roads immediately adjacent to the stadium, including Blackstone Street, Derby Road, the Ten Streets, and parts of Great Howard Street, will be closed or will have restricted access.
Fans are reminded to check transport operator websites and social media for the latest updates, buy tickets in advance, and allow extra time for their journeys. Shuttle bus timetables, walking routes, and ferry schedules are available via Merseytravel and Everton FC’s official travel hub.
Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “We’ve worked closely with Everton FC and local partners to ensure matchday travel is safe, efficient, and respectful of our communities. We urge all fans who are able to leave the car at home and embrace public transport or active travel options.
“It will be a busy day for our public transport services. So, give yourself a little extra time to get to there.
“It’s a fabulous stadium and a wonderful addition to the city’s waterfront. The game itself is sure to be a special occasion and one for all Everton fans to savour. The atmosphere will be incredible. “So, let’s kick off the season sustainably – leave the car, take the train, bus, bike or ferry, and be part of a better matchday experience.”
