Taking a stand for football fans
September 24, 2008 2:51 PM
Brian Watkins, Leader of the Liberal Democrats on Norwich City Council, says "I am pleased that the local press have picked up on the recently formulated Liberal Democrat policy to investigate the possibility of introducing safe standing areas in football grounds."
He went on to say:
"I remember the dark days of Hillsborough back in 1989, and the Taylor Report was a justified response to the huge problems that were all too evident at the time. However, things have progressed over the last 15 years. Safe Standing has been successfully implemented in Germany and other European countries. Controlled standing can be safe and it is right to investigate the issue afresh here in Britain.
"This issue is all about giving supporters a choice. Those who want to sit should be able to do so, and seated areas should form the vast majority of the stadium. However, a safe standing area could give supporters the option to stand and support their team. The natural reaction of most supporters is to stand during exciting moments, but occasionally this can cause annoyance to those who remain seated. It can also be dangerous, because seated areas are not designed for such a purpose. The establishment of segregated standing areas would help to resolve this particular issue, as well as providing those supporters with a cheaper alternative to spiralling ticket prices elsewhere.
"I am sure that many local supporters would welcome the opportunity to stand and cheer on Norwich in a safe and controlled environment.
On the ball city!"
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