Win or lose, Cork and Clare plan homecoming parties for their teams

Win or lose, both Cork and Clare are planning big homecoming bashes after the two counties do battle again today in the replay of the All-Ireland hurling final.

For Cork, the welcome home for the team will take place on a stage on the South Mall at the junction with Parnell Place tomorrow evening.

Entertainment for the evening will kick off at 5.15pm and will continue until the arrival of the team, which is expected around 6pm.

Major diversions will be in place tomorrow night from 4pm to 9.30pm to facilitate the homecoming. All city centre routes will be affected by road closures. Lapp’s Quay will be closed at 12pm and northbound lanes on Parnell Bridge will close at 1pm.

From 4pm tomorrow, there will be no parking permitted on South Mall from Pembroke Street to Parnell Place (both sides), on Parnell Place from South Mall to Merchants Quay (both sides) and Lapp’s Quay.

In the event of a win, the Black Ash Park and Ride will operate from 4pm to 9pm with the city terminus operating from City Hall, Anglesea Street. The service will be free of charge and those attending are asked to use the service.

Parents and guardians intending to bring children to the event should be aware that very large crowds are expected so people are advised to come early.

In Clare, Ennis Town Council and Clare County Council will host a joint homecoming for the senior and All-Ireland winning U-21 teams.

The event will take place at Tim Smythe Park, formerly known as The Fairgreen. Entertainment will start at 6pm tomorrow and both teams are expected to arrive at 7.30pm. The event will be broadcast on www.ennisapp.ie.

Parking arrangements and traffic restrictions will be in place on the day.