Harbour Bridge Protest: Police warn of ‘significant’ transport delays in Sydney CBD on Sunday

Police and transport authorities are scrambling to implement necessary measures after the NSW Supreme Court said it would not block the pro-Palestinian rally taking place on the Sydney Harbour Bridge on Sunday.

NSW Supreme Court Justice Belinda Rigg rejected a police application to shut down the march on public safety grounds.

Thousands of protesters are expected at the demonstration to highlight what the United Nations has described as “worsening famine conditions” in Gaza.

Organised by the Palestinian Action Group Sydney, the protest has garnered support from activists nationwide, human rights and civil liberties groups, as well as several MPs.

Protesters are expected to march from the CBD, across the bridge to North Sydney.

Major transport disruptions expected

Transport for NSW has urged motorists to avoid non-essential travel from 11.30am on Sunday, warning that the closure of the bridge will cause a “significant impact” on the city’s transport network.

“If you do really need to drive to get to essential places like Sydney Airport, we’d strongly encourage that you consider alternate routes such as the Gladesville Bridge and Victoria Road,” Transport for NSW Central Metropolitan Region Commander Craig Moran told reporters on Saturday.

There will be changes to bus operations, with buses terminating around the North Sydney and Saint Leonards area in the city’s north and in the CBD in the city’s south.

Trains will continue running across the Harbour Bridge during the march. However, Mr Moran warned that the rail network will be exceptionally busy.

The bridge is expected to reopen by 4pm on Sunday.

Police to maintain strong presence

Acting Deputy Commissioner Peter McKenna said hundreds of NSW Police officers will be on duty, and warned of “swift action” if anyone attempts to hijack the protest or put public safety at risk.

“We will have police right along the route, and we’ll be making sure that this is done as safely and peacefully as possible,” he said.

Mr McKenna reiterated the advice for the public to avoid travelling into the city.

“Tomorrow is the day to avoid it because there will be disruptions. There’s no doubt about that.”

Police are working closely with organisers to ensure the event proceeds safely.

“We ask that all the participants who are coming into the city tomorrow to take part in this public assembly. Listen to police. Be respectful. Understand that there will be large crowds. We will have to facilitate this carefully,” Mr McKenna said.

Mr McKenna added that the police will have “no hesitation but to take action” if any type of offence or social behaviour that puts public safety at risk is committed.

“We’re working together now to make sure there’s a good outcome, that it’s safe for everyone. For the protesters, the public and so on. I’m sure it will continue to work together with some options as well that will do moving forward, to have an achievable outcome.”

- With AAP