Many fans like the comfort of watching the game in their seats, but a section love the thrill of doing it standing up, and this has brought back the once abolished “standing” section in stadiums. Only this time, it’s safer.
Following the introduction of safe standing in Germany and then Scotland (Celtic Park), EPL sides like Manchester United, Man City, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur did the same last season, introducing it in England.
The trend seems to have attracted other clubs, the latest being Newcastle, who, according to the club’s official tweet, will install safe stands in their away section this summer.
As for the home section, fans will reportedly be consulted before installation starts next year to be fair to spectators who have booked season tickets for home games.
On the club’s official website, the Newcastle head of safety and security, Dave Gregory, stated their objective to ensure the safety of their “standing” fans.
“We are committed to making St James Park as safe as possible for everyone…for fans who may wish to stand…” his statement read.
If successfully installed, not just at Newcastle but anywhere else, these safe stands will ensure harmony between the seated and standing spectators, as well as ensure safety for the latter, as things such as falling over will be avoided.
Additionally, some think that these new stands will be cheaper than those in the sitting section, allowing more light-pocketed supporters to physically watch games.
