Following extensive structural inspections of Oakwell Stadium, it has been identified that various remedial works are required to the (DX) West Stand and, to therefore ensure the protection of all spectators, the Club have taken the necessary decision to close the stand until further notice.
In addition to structural challenges, safety concerns and crowd management issues were also raised and cited as rationale to close the 130-year-old stand.
The closure will be immediate, meaning that neither fans nor directors will be permitted access to their seat for the next home fixture. The stand will however remain operational on matchdays for visiting journalists and media.
With close to 1,000 seasonal members reserving seats in the West Stand for the 21/22 campaign, a relocation process (for those wishing to move) will now take place. Impacted supporters have been individually contacted.
Chief Executive Officer, Khaled El-Ahmad, said: “The safety and security of supporters and staff is of the utmost importance. I made a promise internally to both staff and fans alike to be transparent regardless of how difficult the news is to share.
“The decision is purely based on a structural report and a number of West Stand specific crowd management challenges.
“With the history associated to this stand, in addition to the knowledge that a number of supporters have sat here for consecutive seasons, the Club appreciates both the emotional and practical problems this decision brings.
“Please know that we have members of staff working tirelessly to implement solutions in time for our next home game.”
With safety being of paramount importance to the Club, this position will remain under review with updates provided accordingly.
