Noth Stand Standing/Safe Standing Trial Support

Hi Insider. You may have noticed the poll running on the main forum page regarding the trialing of safe standing areas at football grounds. A number of clubs have now come out and stated that they would support such a trial. At present, around 90% of those who have answered the NSC poll have been supportive. If such a large proportion of fans are in support, is there any chance that the club will add its name to those already in favour? Also, are the club willing to enter discussions with fan reps from the North stand regarding the current issues of standing in seated areas? There seems to be much confusion about what the club stated would be acceptable and things seem to be getting a little heated. Thanks!

The club does not support any move for "safe standing" in football stadia and is not considering such a move for the American Express Community Stadium. We have just spent over £100 million developing a state of the art all-seated football stadium, recently named best new venue in the world. One of our main aims was to make the stadium fully inclusive for anyone who wishes to watch and enjoy football, regardless of their age, sex, height, or physical condition, and for them to do so in an atmosphere that is conducive to comfort, great views, and good behaviour. This is in stark contrast to standing areas where a large percentage of the general football watching population are excluded because they would be unable to actually see the pitch. In turn, standing areas create the potential for poor behaviour to go undetected and unresolved. As a club that is doing all it can to promote a family event atmosphere within the stadium and on its approaches, this would be a backward step.