Sunderland fan welcomes club’s U18 safe standing rethink after older supporters raise concerns | OneFootball

A 70-year-old Sunderland supporter has thanked the club after it revised plans for safe standing in Block U18 at the Stadium of Light, following feedback from older fans. The change was confirmed on 3 June.

The club said in a statement that, after installing 2,000 rail seats in the Roker End for 2024/25, it had proposed extending rail seating to blocks U40, U15, U16, U17 and U18 in the Roker End and South West corner for 2026/27. Following feedback, U18 will have rail seating only in the top seven rows, with the lower rows remaining seated. The area will be monitored during the season and future requirements kept under review.

Emails sent to season-ticket holders on Monday 25 May outlined the expansion, targeting areas where many supporters regularly stand. While rail seating still allows sitting, views for seated fans could be obstructed by those standing.

John Marshall, from Durham City, has held a season ticket for 40 years and sits in U18. After a hip replacement, he said he and other older fans would struggle to stand for close to two hours, noting most in U18 prefer to sit.

He and fellow U18 supporters contacted the club, and on 2 June the safety team emailed to confirm the revision for the block. Marshall thanked the club for listening and said the response showed sensitivity and a sense of togetherness.

A Love Supreme representative Paul Dobson, who is nearly 70 and prefers to stand, welcomed safe standing and the club’s willingness to adjust for those with mobility issues. He called the compromise a sensible solution.

Source: Sunderland Echo