Belfast is preparing for the opening of Ireland's first Ikea store tomorrow in a manner similar to the way it prepared for contentious parades.
The PSNI and emergency services are not expecting any riots when the 29,000sq m Ikea store (the size of 5½ football pitches) starts operating tomorrow morning but nonetheless a detailed plan has been put in place to try to ensure the smooth arrival of the Swedish giant.
Ikea invited the media to the store yesterday to announce the arrangements for tomorrow when up to 15,000 customers are due to pile through the doors.
Senior police officers also held a press briefing to advise people travelling to the store to remain "calm and patient", while the roads service said special arrangements had been put in place but warned of traffic disruption.
Ikea, which has 530 employees, has 1,600 car parking spaces, plus 600 overflow spaces in the nearby Holywood Exchange complex, which it hopes will be sufficient.
Paul Reid, the store manager, said the company has been working closely with the roads service and the PSNI to "do everything in our power to minimise any potential traffic disruption".
Police said that people planning to fly from the George Best Belfast City Airport, which is beside Ikea, would need to allow themselves plenty of time tomorrow and in subsequent days. They warned against blocking junctions, attempting shortcuts, driving on hard shoulders or parking illegally.
If matters get out of hand then access to the store could be restricted, the PSNI warned. "Our prime concern is ensuring public safety and if that involves closing off slip roads for a time then we will do that," said one officer.
Ikea staff, in their distinctive yellow and blue uniforms, were busy ensuring everything was in place for the grand opening which will be performed by Belfast lord mayor Jim Rodgers and Mr Reid.
The opening will be marked by a "traditional Swedish log-cutting" ceremony, with doors opening at 10am. Customers celebrating their birthdays tomorrow will receive a £10 gift card. Those who come in Swedish fancy dress before noon will receive a gift card with a mystery value of between £1 and £250.
