RANGERS fans fear a public hearing into a council plan to introduce a parking zone outside Ibrox could be an "exercise in futility".

Two Scottish Government reporters have been appointed to lead a hearing after hundreds of people objected to plans for an event day parking zone, launched due to residents' concerns about obstructive parking.

A pre-hearing meeting, attended by some fans, was held to set out the procedures for the hearing, which could start on May 26.

A season ticket holder quizzed reporter Sinead Lynch on the possible outcome of the hearing, asking whether the council would have to abide by the reporters' decision.

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If they're not going to listen it would be an "exercise in futility", she added.

The reporter said it would be up to the council to decide whether it accepts any recommendations. They can either recommend the authority progresses with the order as drafted, makes changes or drops it altogether.

However, reporter Lance Guilford emphasised all the content would be in the public domain and the authority would be expected to consider all the issues raised.

The two reporters agreed to consider a request urging them to carry out a site visit before, instead of after, the hearing. Bailie Norman MacLeod said it would be a "wise precaution".

The key points taken from the representations are the management of unsafe and inconsiderate parking in residential areas, provision for disadvantaged groups, the nature and capacity of existing public transport andthe difficulty of using public transport from long distances and at specific times.

They also include the potential for improvements to public transport and for additional car parking, the displacement of parking to other areas, the health and safety of people on roads, in stations and at bus stops and the economic impact of the proposed order

The council intends to have external legal advisers, from Harper Macleod, and senior officers from the neighbourhoods and sustainability department speak at the hearing.

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Rangers has yet to confirm its representatives but the head of security and operations and the club secretary are expected to speak.

Other representations are expected from Police Scotland, Scottish Fire and Rescue, SPT, ScotRail, First Bus, community councils, supporters clubs and Club 1872.

Ms Lynch acknowledged the hearing could need to be postponed due to coronavirus. "We will of course take in any advice," she said.