The second test match at Everton’s new stadium showed some improvements but also highlighted ongoing transport issues. While train frequency was increased, many fans still experienced overcrowding and delays on their way to the game.

Fans still concerned about transport issues

After the first test event raised concerns about train shortages and overcrowding on the Merseyrail network, measures were taken to improve transport. This time, there were some positive changes, though not all problems were resolved. Merseyrail increased the number of carriages and train frequency to three key locations: Liverpool city center, Southport, and Ormskirk. Trains ran every 15 minutes from 11:30 AM, with fans arriving as early as noon. Sandhills Station, the nearest rail stop, is about a 15-minute walk from Everton Stadium. Many supporters took advantage of the good weather to get familiar with the new route, and despite earlier road closures in central Liverpool due to a half marathon, traffic around the stadium remained smooth.

Not everyone had a trouble-free experience, though. Fans traveling from Liverpool’s southern districts complained about packed trains and long queues. At first, it was fine, said season ticket holder Tom McMahon, who was traveling with his son from Hunts Cross. But when we got to Liverpool South Parkway, it became really crowded, and some kids were scared. At one city center stop, the train was so full that people couldn’t board, and one passenger was shouting that he’d been waiting for an hour.

Merseyrail officials acknowledged the issues and promised further improvements. Another challenge arose during the first half when an intruder entered the tracks at Seaforth and Litherland Station, forcing British Transport Police to temporarily shut down the line. Fans were informed about the disruption at halftime, allowing them to plan alternative routes home. The issue was resolved within 30 minutes, and services resumed.

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Evacuation drill passes smoothly as mayor draws conclusions

Everton was required to stop the test match after 65 minutes to conduct an evacuation drill. All fans were asked to leave the stadium following announcements on speakers and digital screens. The process went smoothly, with stewards ensuring a calm and well-organized exit.

Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram highlighted that public transport handled over half of the test event’s attendees—500 people took ferries, more than 2,000 used dedicated buses, and over 12,000 traveled by train. Over the next few weeks, we’ll continue analyzing what we can improve to be fully prepared for the first league match in August, he said.

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City scales back controversial parking restrictions

Liverpool City Council has suspended new parking restrictions around Everton’s Bramley-Moore Dock stadium following backlash from local businesses. The experimental traffic regulations (ETRO) were meant to limit street parking within a 30-minute walking radius of the stadium. However, many were caught off guard by the fact that restrictions were set to apply year-round, not just on matchdays. Local business owners warned that this could force some of them to shut down.

In response to over 5,000 public consultation submissions, the city council announced that the restrictions in the most affected areas—such as the waterfront from Canada Dock to Leeds Street and the Pumpfields district—would be suspended until August. Parking limits will remain in residential neighborhoods, where residents can apply for two free permits per household.

Liverpool City Council plans to introduce updated regulations in August, when Everton officially begins playing at the new stadium. The decision to pause restrictions comes after the second test event at Everton Stadium, which drew 25,000 fans. The council insists that final parking decisions will balance the needs of residents and local businesses before the new season kicks off.

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