MIDDLESBROUGH are set to trial safe standing at the Riverside Stadium, with a licensed area in the South Stand to be in place from next month until the end of the season.
There'll be a temporary installation of independent barriers in two rows in the upper tier of the South Stand, which will be in place for the visit of Millwall on Saturday, December 14.
Boro say the decision has been taken after "extensive discussions" with the local Safety Authority Group and the Sports Grounds Safety Authority (SGSA).
RECOMMENDED READING:
- Finn Azaz's 'something different' reflection on Luton win - and look ahead to future
- 'A better Boro squad than the one that made the play-offs? It's looking that way...'
The barriers will be installed in the upper rows of blocks 58-60. Season ticket holders in the area have been contacted by the club.
The barriers will be in place for the remainder of the season, with club officials set to continue to listen to feedback from supporters. Boro have carried out extensive research on safe standing in recent years and closely monitored developments at other clubs since the pilot was first introduced in the top two divisions three years ago.
Sunderland, Leeds, Derby and QPR all have safe standing areas at their grounds.
Boro's barriers will be place for the remainder of the season before a longer-term decision is made.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here