Overview

This bill aims to allow all football clubs in England and Wales the option to install or retain safe standing areas in their stadiums. It sets minimum safety standards for these areas and clarifies the licensing process.

Description

The Safe Standing (Football Stadia) Bill amends the Football Spectators Act 1989. Key changes include:

• Removal of all-seater requirement: The bill removes the mandatory all-seater requirement for football stadiums, giving clubs the choice to include safe standing sections.
• New licensing conditions: It introduces new powers for the Secretary of State to set safety conditions for safe standing areas in football stadium licenses. These conditions will consider the number of seated and standing spaces but will not mandate all-seater stadiums.
• Consultation process: The Secretary of State must consult with licensing authorities and local authorities before imposing any conditions on safe standing.
• Definition of "safe standing": The bill defines "safe standing" and specifies that it applies to designated matches in Premier League and Football League grounds.
• Guidance: Licensing authorities must provide guidance to the Secretary of State on safe standing conditions within 18 months of the bill's enactment.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending. The costs will likely involve the development and enforcement of safety regulations for safe standing areas. The exact financial impact is not detailed in the bill itself.

Groups Affected

• Football Clubs: Clubs will have greater flexibility in stadium design and may choose to install safe standing areas, potentially increasing capacity and revenue.
• Football Fans: Fans will have more choice in seating or standing options.
• Licensing Authorities: Will be responsible for implementing and enforcing the new licensing conditions for safe standing areas.
• Local Authorities: Involved in consultations on the implementation of safe standing conditions.
• Secretary of State: Responsible for setting safety regulations and overseeing their implementation.

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