London Stadium prime candidate for safe standing

Plans to lift the ban on standing in the English Premier League and Championship are set to be announced by the government, the BBC claims

It is thought a handful of grounds including the London Stadium will be able to use designated safe standing areas before the end of the season.

It would mean for the first time in over 25 years, fans of some top-flight football clubs would be legally allowed to stand and watch their team play.

An official announcement is expected as soon as next month says the BBC.

The chairman of the Football Supporters Association, Malcolm Clarke, said it was a “welcome” development that would benefit all fans.

He added: “People who want to stand should be able to do so in safety. Those who want to sit should be able to do so without having their view blocked.”

And while they are keen to proceed with caution, if the initial trials prove successful, the expectation is legislation would be widened out to cover all stadiums in England’s top two divisions within the next few years.

A spokesperson for the Sports Ground Safety Authority said: “We are working closely with the government on planning the next steps for implementing this manifesto commitment.”

The London Stadium lower North and South stands have safe standing built into the new stands making them prime candidates for the trial.