United Allowed To Install Standing Stand With A Capacity Of 1,500 Spectators

JAKARTA - The Premier League competition is still postponed because the COVID-19 pandemic or the corona virus has not ended. However, Manchester United has obtained permission to install a standing stand with a capacity of 1,500 spectators at Old Trafford.

The use of standing stands has been approved following changes to several regulations and a feasibility study conducted by the club. The Red Devils will test the standing stands when fans can return to watching the match at the stadium.

"It may sound strange to talk about stadium plans at this time, but football and our fans will return when the situation is safe, and our preparations must continue," United Managing Director Richard Arnold said as quoted by Soccerway, Thursday, 30 April.

"This announcement is the latest step in what has been a long journey for our fans. We have listened to their input, particularly representatives of MUST (Manchester United Supporters Trust) and are working with Trafford Council to develop and approve this proposal," he added.

Arnold added, standing stands can increase the safety factor of the spectators who choose to watch the match while standing. The trials can also be carried out in several other areas of the stadium.

"We will now move towards installation, compliance and licensing for trials, with the aim of having new seats installed when we can again welcome our fans to Old Trafford," said Arnold.

We have received approval from @TraffordCouncil for a barrier seating trial to take place at Old Trafford. More information 👇 # MUFC

- Manchester United (@ManUtd) April 29, 2020

Standing-free stadiums have been mandatory for Britain's top two divisions since the 1994-1995 season, following stadium safety recommendations from the Taylor Report, which investigated the deaths of 96 people in the Hillsborough disaster.

But recently there have been demands to provide a safe standing stand in England's top competition, where United's move will be followed by Tottenham Hotspur and Wolverhampton.