Standing at football

Since August 1994, clubs in the English Premier League and Championship have been required to provide all-seated accommodation. The all-seated policy followed Lord Justice Taylor’s report into the Hillsborough disaster of April 1989.

However, improvements in stadium design, the wishes of some fans to stand, and the success of “safe standing” in other European countries, has led to calls for the introduction of standing areas at Premier League and Championship grounds.

The 2019 Conservative Party Manifesto included a commitment to “work with fans and clubs towards introducing safe standing”.

From 1 January 2022, standing will be allowed in licensed areas at the grounds of five clubs – Cardiff City, Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur. Other parts of the grounds must remain all-seated. The change will be introduced through the Football Spectators (Seating) Order 2021 (SI 2021/1239). 

The change has been welcomed by the Football Supporters’ Association.