Heading to the footy at Blundstone Arena tonight?

The North Melbourne v Richmond game will kick off just before 8pm and traffic is expected to be congested in the lead up to the start, as well as after it finishes at about 10.20pm.

Police will be on hand to help with the smooth flow of traffic but drivers should plan for some delays.

If possible, drivers are encouraged to leave their cars at home and make use of free bus and ferry services.

The RACT ‘Park and Ride’ Royal Coach free bus (for those with tickets) service will be operating, so there’ll be more bus services than ever available to help people getting to and from the game.

Free ferries (for those with tickets) will also be departing from Brooke Street Pier between 4.30pm and 6.30pm and arriving at Bellerive Quay.

Some tips for those who have no option but to drive to the game:

– Avoid travelling in peak hour if you can

– Carpool wherever possible

– Avoid Rosny Hill Road as this is prone to delays

– Use the South Arm Highway/Clarence Street route to avoid congestion

– Be patient, obey all road signs and directions at managed traffic points