[Official Site] RAIL SEATING (SAFE STANDING) AT OAKWELL

Wow! I’m one one the biggest critics of the way this Club has been run over a long period of time but this is the best news to come out of the Club for years. Well done to all involved.

Slightly surprised it’s in the Ponty when the West Stand would appear to be the best/easiest option but that is traditionally the ‘home end’ so fully understand the decision.

Just brilliant news and an example of the Club making a 21 century decision. There is not a ground development in the Country these days that doesn’t try to incorporate the option of ‘choice’ for fans, and huge credit to the Club for providing that choice.

 

Every club has a problem with standing that I've been to or seen on TV.

 

Yep, on that pic it looks like the seats have been replaced with ones that don't take up too much space.

At the Allianz Arena, they don't even have seats, just allocated spaces.

 

Completely out of character for me - I'm giving the Club the benefit of the doubt and the credit for what is a very progressive step.

 

Summat new, it will bring a cracking atmosphere with it

 

Not convinced that standing or not standing has much sway on the atmosphere.

 

Me either.

 

I thought this possibility had come about do to the Fan Engagement meeting & the supporters trust

 

That was before Hillsbrough and the Taylor report.

 

Yes you should read it. Standing up is not what led to the deaths of those fans at Hillsborough.

 

Rail seating was introduced because UEFA ruled that the likes of the Champions League and other UEFA competitions should be in all seater stadia. Many Clubs particularly wanted standing at domestic matches which is why they introduced rail seats. BFC looked at introducing them 10 years ago in the Don Rowing era., but the cost was deemed prohibitive. The cost has now doubled to around £100 a seat.

 

I didn't think a scarf would but it did, it's folk mentality

 

Yes I do know the history and our fans were never completely innocent when gathered in large numbers. I was one of the 38,076 packed in to Oakwell for the visit of Best, Law and Charlton 50 odd years ago. No doubt there was some pushing and surging behind the goal but I don’t recall any problems being reported.

Ultimately all seater is the safest option but we all know that many don’t want that. Personally I want a seat - every time

 

Not that I'm aware of mate. (But not saying it didnt happen) It was disclosed at the advisory group that they were progressing with an application. Which has gone to the powers that be. In giving a safety certificate afore they can press ahead.
Hopefully b4 the start of next season and release of ST prices I'd have thought.

 

I get ‘safe standing’, but for me, due to the costs involved, it’s not a top priority right now.

I suspect the majority of fans are not that bothered - although I do respect some are.

The cost of changing over a section is also a 6 figure sum the last I heard. For me, I’d rather that go towards a better squad or a new bigger scoreboard etc. I’m not saying never - I just think it’s not a priority.

And for anyone who says standing makes for a better atmosphere - it’s the football on display and the result that gives that. The final 10 home games last year were incredible for the atmosphere - proper 12th man stuff regardless of seating or not.

And for those who say the West Lower should be safe standing - absolutely not. Waste of money. Needs better female toilets and a proper bar etc before safe standing.

 

Yep, I think that’s a factor in their thinking as well.