Locals to be quizzed on impact

A STUDY will be carried out to assess the impact of the Old Firm Hampden showdown on the local community.

Residents in Glasgow’s Mount Florida will be asked if the semifinal prevented them from getting out of their homes safely.

They will also be asked to report any anti-social behaviour that they witness in their neighbourhood.

A huge police operation will be mounted in the area to make sure rival fans are kept apart.

It’s the first big weekend of football at Hampden since the stadium hosted events at the Commonwealth Games.

Chris Carus, chairman of the Mount Florida Community Council, said: “Most people consider these games an inconvenience but it is pretty infrequent. There was a degree of frustration at some of the things that happened during the Glasgow Games.”

The results of the survey will be published towards the end of February and will be used to raise issues with Police Scotland and Glasgow City Council.

Local MSP James Dornan said: “I welcome big events taking place at Hampden. The stadium represents a huge economic boost for this part of the city.

“But attracting large amounts of spectators does have implications for the people living there.

“I’m delighted to see the community council taking seriously the issue of any possible problems arising.”