Safe standing at sporting stadiums?

Weren't they abolished for very good reason?

New systems which allow standing are now being advocated.  Expensive to install and look like cattle stalls but effective against those dangers open terracing with limited barriers offered. One problem with the new idea is speed of exit in an emergency.

Why on earth would anyone want to stand for nearly two hours? 

David

I would. I remember standing at old Trafford and several other grounds watching Manchester United as a youngster, and at the Willows watching Salford Rugby League club. I think it helped create great atmospheres in the grounds. On the rare occasion I go to Old Trafford these days it’s a sterile and boring atmosphere. I know this is not just down to seating, but that’s part of the problem. Anyway, there are large sections of the crowds at many premiership football grounds that continue to stand despite the seats, that must be saying what their preference is.

Safe standing at Football matches?, unless it’s in small groups I don’t think it exists. The system was changed for a reason. I was caught up a number of times back in the day & came away with a bruised stomach when pinned against barriers after a surge forward. Leave it in the past I’d say.

I have done similar. I remember one Boxing Day being at the Dell (Southampton's old ground) with 30,000 other spectators, you could hardly see a thing. Talk about dangerous the capacity was later reduced to 15,000!!! I also went to see a final at the old Wembley and I tend to agree about the atmosphere but that was mainly down to the size of the stadium and the fact that most people seemed to be drunk!!! I have only been to Stadium MK once but a much nicer experience as the ground is more compact and plenty of personal space. 

David

I've done both in the past. The old style stadiums were dangerous, my Dad would never take me to Elland Road as a youngster. Ironically, we have often found ourselves standing up out of our seats at some PL games, one stands, everyone stands in that area. Same at Rock Concerts. 

Design is the key. The steep sides at Old Trafford for example make it a no no in certain areas. Our tickets came with guidance for those with heart conditions given how many steps you needed to climb to get to your seat!

" ...remember one Boxing Day being at the Dell (Southampton's old ground)"

That's going back a bit. They've been at St Mary's for quite some time. I used to watch the speedway at the track next door to the Dell back in my youth.

I remember watching Kevin Keegan at The Old Showground and Ian Botham too! 

We got married at the church next door to the Dell. The date was conditional on there not being a home match on the same day!!!

David