ACCESS to areas around the stadiums set to host the UEFA Champions League finals will be “extremely” limited it has been announced, while anyone attending will be subject to “rigorous” security checks.

South Wales Police, who are organising security around the events in Cardiff, has said “detailed” safety planning and preparation has been under way for months ahead of the forthcoming women’s and men’s finals, which will take place on June 1 and June 3, respectively.

A spokeswoman for South Wales Police said: “For the whole period our planning and preparation has been ongoing the threat level across the UK has remained at severe and all our security plans reflect this threat.

“Our approach to policing this major sporting event is intelligence-led and risk-based which gives us the flexibility to respond to any changes.

“During this time, we have seen several terrorist attacks across mainland Europe and the UK, including the terrible events in Manchester last night.

“These incidents have been closely monitored and have been taken in to consideration in all of our planning.”

The spokeswoman also said “extensive” searches and installation of security measures have been taking place in Cardiff during the past week and will continue in the run-up to the event.

“Access to areas around the stadiums on event days will be extremely limited, and ticket-holders can expect to be subject to rigorous security checks,” she added.

“Measures will also be taken to restrict vehicular access to a number of areas within Cardiff.”

The spokeswoman said the force are working with with other security forces across the country to ensure a safe and secure environment around the Cardiff City Stadium, which will host the women's final, and the Principality Stadium – which has been renamed the National Stadium of Wales, for marketing purposes, until the event is over - which will host the men's game.

“We advise the public to be alert and not alarmed,” she said. “We urge our communities to remain vigilant and to report any concerns to the confidential anti-terrorism hotline on 0800 789321.”

The Welsh Government has announced a 50mph speed limit will be in place from Junction 23A Magor to Junction 33 Cardiff, and the westbound carriageway of the A48(M), from Monday May 29.