stadia-magazine.com

Arsenal to introduce safe standing at Emirates Stadium

Arsenal F.C. will introduce safe standing at Emirates Stadium from the beginning of next season.

The initial phase will see safe standing installed in the Clock End, creating space for 6,850 supporters to watch the Gunners on their feet. From the 2027–28 campaign, the scheme will be expanded to the North Bank, where a further 6,650 fans will be accommodated in a safe-standing configuration.

The changes will not affect the overall capacity of the Emirates, and measures will be in place to prevent movement between seated areas and designated safe-standing sections.

The Arsenal Supporters’ Trust (AST) has spearheaded the campaign to introduce safe standing at the ground for several years, arguing that it would significantly enhance the atmosphere on matchdays. Following extensive discussions between the trust and the club, a decision has now been taken to proceed.

A survey conducted by the AST in 2017 found that 96 per cent of respondents supported the introduction of safe standing at football stadiums.

In a statement, the AST welcomed the move:

“Arsenal fans have long called for this, so it is fantastic news that safe standing will be introduced at the Emirates Stadium.

“We have campaigned for more than ten years to achieve this outcome and believe it will further enhance the matchday experience, improve the atmosphere and ultimately strengthen support for the team.

“It will also provide greater clarity for supporters when purchasing tickets, setting clear expectations about whether they should expect to stand or be seated for the majority of the game.”

Read full news in source page