Safe Standing at Celtic FC: A Deep Dive into Implementation and Impact

Mr. Robin Buchanan, the seasoned Stadium General Manager at Celtic FC, shares insights into the transformative introduction of safe standing at Celtic Park.

In an exclusive interview with ESSMA, Mr. Robin Buchanan, the seasoned Stadium General Manager at Celtic FC, shares insights into the transformative introduction of safe standing at Celtic Park. With 21 seasons at the helm, Buchanan narrates the captivating journey from the conception of the idea to the implementation of rail seating, providing a unique perspective on the challenges, successes, and the profound impact on fan experience and safety. Join us as we explore the world of safe standing, uncovering the motivations, considerations, and the future trajectory of this groundbreaking initiative in football stadiums.

Origins of Safe Standing at Celtic: No Accidents, Just Evolution

The concept of safe standing emerges from fan interest, inspired by practices in Germany and Austria. Mr. Buchanan highlights how the Taylor Report and concerns from the safety advisory group led Celtic to explore solutions, ultimately choosing rail seating over other alternatives.

Advantages of Rail Seating: A Closer Look

Mr. Buchanan emphasises the importance of robustness, individual fan experiences, and the durability of rail seating over other models. The choice of metal seats over plastic contributes to a safer and more resilient standing area.

Infrastructural Challenges and Legal Considerations

The introduction of rail seating faced unique challenges, navigating legal barriers and engaging in extensive discussions with various stakeholders. Mr. Buchanan shares insights into the complex process of making standing a reality in a climate where it wasn't initially allowed.

Premier League Interest: Clubs Visiting Celtic Park

Premier League clubs show keen interest in Celtic's safe standing initiative, with many visiting Celtic Park for firsthand observations. Mr. Buchanan extends an open invitation to others interested in understanding the implementation.

Mr. Buchanan advocates for UEFA to permit safe standing, expressing the inconvenience of installing and removing seats. While aware of the UEFA Observer Program, he reflects on the potential for change in UEFA regulations.

Impact on Design and Infrastructure: Maintaining Continuity

Rail seating's one-for-one conversion maintains continuity for fans, allowing them to use the same ticket. Buchanan discusses the financial impact, acknowledging lower maintenance costs compared to traditional seating.

Stewarding and Evacuation Plans: A Safety-Centric Approach

Distinct stewarding plans for the rail seating section ensure safety without compromising overall evacuation procedures. Buchanan details the separate guidelines for this section while highlighting alignment with standard safety protocols.

Fans respond enthusiastically to the introduction of safe standing, creating high demand and a waiting list for the rail seating section. Buchanan describes the immediate success and popularity of the safer standing area.

Future Expansion: Balancing Demand and Logistics

While the club might explore expansion, there are currently no plans in place. Buchanan discusses the challenges of implementing safe seating in specific areas of the stadium, considering logistical constraints. Mr. Buchanan anticipates a widespread adoption of safe standing in football stadiums. With a personal appreciation for the atmosphere of standing terraces, he expects most stadiums, especially new ones, to incorporate safe standing in their designs.

The interview concludes with Mr. Buchanan highlighting the complexity of retrofitting rail seating in existing stadiums. Compliance with regulations and potential architectural changes demand careful consideration, distinguishing the challenges faced by existing stadiums from the relative ease of implementing safe standing in new ones.

Want to learn more about safe standing at Celtic Park? 

Head to our ESSMA Knowledge Platform for the full interview with Mr. Buchanan! 

Available for ESSMA members only.