Police yet to confirm they will be present when Norwich City take on Ipswich next month

Police arrangements have not been resolved for Norwich's trip to Ipswich next months: Here Norwich City's Lewis Grabban (left) celebrates with Kyle Lafferty (right) after scoring the opening goal of the game against Ipswich Town during a Sky Bet Championship match at Portman Road, Ipswich. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Saturday August 23, 2014. Photo credit should read: Nigel French/PA Wire. PA Wire

Policing arrangements at next month’s hotly-anticipated ‘Old Farm’ derby between Norwich City and Ipswich Town remain in limbo as it emerged Suffolk Constabulary has yet to confirm its presence at Portman Road this season.

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The Suffolk club said the situation is not linked to its failed High Court Battle to claim back £200,000 from the constabulary, according to the Ipswich Star.

The club also pointed out many games no longer have a police presence inside the stadium, as the club’s own security arrangements are deemed sufficient.

However, this has never included an Ipswich v Norwich derby, which is due to be played on Sunday, August 21.

It would also not normally be the case where matches involve a large travelling fan base, or one which has a ‘high-risk’ hooligan element to it.

This season Leeds, Cardiff, Newcastle, and Aston Villa will also be visiting Portman Road.

Asked to confirm or deny whether it will be policing inside and outside the ground this season Suffolk Constabulary would only say: “We are continuing to work with the Safety Advisory Group to provide advice and allow the chair to determine how the club meets it obligation to achieve a Safety Certificate.”

A spokesman for ITFC said: “In view of the good behaviour record of our supporters at Portman Road over many years and in line with how football in general is looking at stewarding matches, we are in discussion with various groups on what safety and security resources the Club requires on match-day within the confines of the stadium.

“These discussions are on-going and have been for a considerable time.

“We’d also like to reiterate that we continue to have a very good relationship with all the emergency services, including the police.”

Safety advisory groups consist of representatives from the local authorities, police, fire, and ambulance services, along with other partner agencies.

A legal battle is continuing after Ipswich Town claimed it was unlawful for Suffolk Constabulary to charge for ordinary policing on the public highway.

It also claimed the force was not entitled to charge for the provision of “special police services” on these occasions.

Despite this, two weeks ago Mr Justice Green found in favour of the constabulary’s counter claim of £96,000, owed by the club in unpaid invoices.

The club immediately said it would appeal the decision.