Hosted by Supporters Direct Scotland
Date: 9th June 2015
Celtic FC have announced that they have been given permission to install ‘safe standing’ rail seating from the 2016/17 season at Celtic Park. The club have long been an advocate for safe standing facilities at the stadium, with previous applications being denied by Glasgow City Council.
The proposed measures will see 2,600 fans accommodated by rail seating, potentially from the season after next.
Celtic Chief Executive Peter Lawwell said: “Celtic has worked tirelessly on this issue and we are delighted that this permission has finally been granted”.
“The introduction of rail seating at Celtic Park represents an investment in spectator safety. Across football globally, the reality is that some supporters are choosing to stand at matches. This is something we must accept and manage and also understand the positive effect which these areas have on atmosphere at matches”.
“Celtic’s primary objective will always be the safety and comfort of its supporters – this new system will now allow fans to stand safely at matches.”
“Rail seating has been in place in European football for some time and there has been considerable demand for some form of “safe standing” within the UK and particularly from our supporters. We are sure the rail seating section will prove very popular with supporters and we look forward to its introduction.”
“I would like to thank Glasgow City Council for their support in delivering this measure and for the backing they have given to Celtic’s focus on safety at matches.”
Supporters Direct Scotland have conducted research into safe standing in Scottish football. The full paper can be read here, while a short YouTube video can be seen here
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