Following dialogue with the Safety Advisory Group over the close season we have been informed that from the start of the 23/24 season that enhanced measures must be implemented to reduce the amount of spectators standing in seated areas.
The Sports Ground Safety Authority (SGSA) have advised that where there is evidence of large numbers of supporters standing in seated areas, then they will allow clubs the opportunity to manage this themselves in the hope that ‘self policing’ will reduce the amount of people standing. However, where this is not successful then the club may have to seriously consider voluntary measures such as reducing capacities or closing off certain areas of the stadium. If the club is still in a position whereby there has been no improvement then Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council (who issue the safety certificate) may impose a reduction in a partial or full closure of a stand.
Standing in areas that are designed for seated accommodation can be dangerous and in the absence of Oakwell not having ‘rail seating’ currently installed, we ask all supporters to work with us in adhering to the licence conditions of the ground. If we cannot address this situation and show improvement then it is likely that the club will be forced to impose, or have imposed, stricter measures.
Similar measures have been imposed at other stadiums last season and it is likely that others will also find themselves in the same situation as ourselves during the 23/24 season.
You will see stewards being more visible and asking supporters to sit down; please work with them to achieve greater compliance before any further action is required. Where non-compliance is found, further action will follow which may include withdrawal of Season Tickets and or/ejection from the ground although it is hoped that this can be avoided.
We understand that supporters will periodically want to stand up at times of excitement and it is not these moments that we are referring to. It is when supporters are standing for long periods that is the matter of concern here.
Your help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your support.
