Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham fans handed boost amid government decision

Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham can now fully integrate safe standing into their respective stadiums.

The system, which is designed to capture the atmosphere of the old terrace days, but in a much safer manner, was trialled last season.

Safe standing, which involves bars to keep supporters from falling forwards, while also including seats, was installed at a select number of stadiums last season.

Chelsea and Tottenham were part of the trial, along with Manchester City, Manchester United and Cardiff City.

The success of the trial has led to government approval, meaning Premier League and Championship clubs are now able to fully adopt the system.

The decision was confirmed on Thursday, and Brentford, QPR and Wolves have already announced they will be installing safe standing.

Others are expected to follow, and Wembley Stadium will introduce a small amount of safe standing for the domestic fixtures in the coming season.

Chelsea and Totteham already have some safe standing areas at their respective grounds, but they can now increase the areas.

Arsenal will also be able to introduce a safe standing area at the Emirates Stadium if they choose to.

Speaking about the decision, culture secretary Nadine Dorries said: “We want to make the experience of watching football as magical as the play on the pitch.

“Fans will now be able to cheer on their team from a seat or join others in a safe standing section to really get behind the players and roar on their heroes to victory.

“We are not reintroducing terraces and only clubs which meet strict safety criteria will be permitted. Thanks to a robust trial, thorough evidence and modern engineering, we are now ready to allow standing once again in our grounds.”

Sports Minister Nigel Huddlestone added: “Based upon what I have experienced and we have learnt through the pilot programme, safe standing is set to deliver an electric atmosphere at our football stadiums.

“Fans have long campaigned for its introduction and we have worked carefully with supporters groups, including the families affected by the tragic Hillsborough football disaster.

“I am proud of the work that has gone into this rigorous process and that we have delivered on our manifesto commitment to get fans back on their feet in stadiums.”