Tottenham’s New Stadium Ready For Safe-Standing in the Future
Tottenham Hotspur have announced that their new 62,000-seater stadium is prepared for the introduction of a law that allows safe-standing areas in stadiums. This announcement comes just before MPs debate the safe-standing matter in parliament on Monday.
Two areas of the new stadium have been “future-proofed” for safe-standing. These areas are the front of the 17,500 single-tier south stand and the visiting fan’s section
New concept
A statement on the club’s official website [tottenhamhotspur.com] outlined the new idea that Spurs have implemented:
“The Club is proposing a purpose-designed ‘safe seating’ concept whereby safety and spectator comfort are given equal precedence, using the same moulded seats as in the rest of the general admission areas. These seats provide the same comfort and legroom as in all other areas of the stadium, with an ergonomically profiled bar set at 900mm for clear sightlines. The seat in its folded position is slim, allowing the stepping clearway to be maximised, with a purpose-designed lock to ensure the seat can be stowed when required.”
The club has made all Season Ticket Holders aware of the areas that have been future-proofed.
Reaction
Donna-Maria Cullen, Executive Director, Tottenham Hotspur, said: “As a Club, we did not engage on this until the Hillsborough Inquiry was concluded, which showed that the tragedy in April 1989 had not been caused by standing. We then conducted research with our fan base which showed overwhelming support for safe standing. The main reasons given were choice and atmosphere – fans cannot sing sitting down. So, at our new stadium, we have designed a section within the home area and within the away section that has an integrated safety bar with the normal seating.
“Fans have bought season tickets for the home area in the knowledge that, should the law change, this would be our standing area – it was one of the first areas to sell out. Importantly, it is a new design which incorporates the same appearance and comfort as all other seats in the stadium. In the meantime, without any change in the law, our design delivers a safer environment should there be persistent standing.” [tottenhamhotspur.com]
Jon Babbs, Stadium Director, Tottenham Hotspur, said: “Our design ensures that, regardless of the law changing, only one fan per seat will be permitted within the future-proofed areas. This, along with the enhanced clearways and integrated bar, provides improved safety should fans stand during games.” [tottenhamhotspur.com]
Martin Cloake, Co-Chair, Tottenham Hotspur Supporters’ Trust, said: “We’re proud the Club is leading the way by proposing an innovative design concept that takes into account what fans have been asking for. Our latest survey is showing support at 88% in favour of safe standing.” [tottenhamhotspur.com]
Tottenham’s new stadium is set to host its first game on September 15th when Liverpool visit North London.
Image used: Embed from Getty Images