Full cost of policing Eurovision in Liverpool confirmed

The cost of policing Liverpool’s massive Eurovision celebrations has been confirmed.

Around half a million people descended on the city during the two weeks of music and events coinciding with the hosting of the continental music show. Liverpool Council said it had surpassed its initial targets of 100,000 visitors and now is turning its focus on how it can maximise the legacy of having the eyes of the world on the city.

Now the cost of ensuring thousands of people were kept safe around Liverpool’s iconic Pier Head has been confirmed by senior officers from Merseyside Police.

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During a scrutiny panel session held by Emily Spurrell, Merseyside police and crime commissioner, Assistant Chief Constable Paul White confirmed what went into the massive operation. He said it had been a “fantastic, safe and secure” event for the whole city the force were pleased to be part of.

ACC White confirmed how during the nine day period events were staged, only 40 additional crimes were reported. Of these, 58% were related to drug possession, while no issues were recorded regarding knife, gun or violent crime.

A total of 10 arrests were made during the entire Eurovision calendar. ACC White said: “I would say that’s a real positive, the fact we had no significant crime and disorder issues whatsoever.”