Glasgow City Council have accepted that big title celebrations in the city centre are likely again this season if Celtic or Rangers win the league.
The title race is still open. Hearts are three points clear, with Celtic just behind and Rangers a point further back. That leaves it set up for a finish that could go right to May 16.
In recent years, the focus has been the Trongate and Glasgow Cross. Large crowds gather there once the title is won. It creates a strong atmosphere, but it also brings issues for people living and working in the area.
The council have been speaking about how to handle that if it happens again, knowing from past experience that stopping fans from gathering is not realistic.
A Glasgow city council spokesman said: (Scottish Sun), “It is clear there are no powers which could compel fans to not gather in the city centre.
“We have agreed to work together on facilitating celebrations which would be meaningful to fans and less impactful on communities.
“The discussions have also reflected on celebrations which have had a disproportionate impact on city centre businesses and residents.”
The way the table looks means the timing of any celebrations could change. If Celtic close the gap, it may come down to the final day, which would only add to the reaction.
Away from that, planning is already under way. The council are trying to strike a balance between letting fans celebrate and keeping disruption down. That is not easy when crowds build so quickly.
If the title is decided on May 16, the city centre is expected to be the main gathering point again. The challenge is managing it, not stopping it.
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