Pranav Nair
Manchester United receive approval to trial barrier seating at Old Trafford
Manchester United have received approval from Trafford Council to conduct a barrier seating-trial at Old Trafford. This was confirmed by the club on their official website.
The decision comes following the submission of a proposal to the local authority earlier in the year following changes to the Sports Grounds Safety Authority Guide to Safety at Sports Grounds and a subsequent feasibility study, which was carried out by the club.
Approval was confirmed to supporters’ representatives at last week’s Fans’ Forum and follows longstanding discussions held with Manchester United Supporters’ Trust and the Fans’ Forum in recent years.
The rail seating will be located in the North East Quadrant of Old Trafford and will accommodate around 1500 supporters.
United will discuss installation with potential suppliers while following governmental recommendations with respect to construction site operating procedures and social distancing.
The club believes that the introduction of barrier seats will enhance spectator safety in areas of the stadium which has seen examples of persistent standing.
United will proceed with the installation, compliance and licensing plan for the trial. The plan is for the new seats installed by the time the supporters return to Old Trafford.
The barrier-seating trial is a part of the club’s plan to enhance the matchday experience for supporters. Earlier, United had announced the extension of the atmosphere section in the Stretford End in the south-west corner.
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Rail seating will allow supporters to stand against a barrier whilst watching games. This is done in the hope that safety in the area where there is persistent standing will be improved.
It is a welcome move to see the club make a decision taking into consideration the safety of the spectators.
