"Before the 2017-18 season, clubs agreed to ensure that at least one block of seating for visiting supporters would be pitchside in an attempt to improve atmospheres. At the time, former Premier League executive chairman Richard Scudamore said: "When an away goal is scored, you want that atmosphere and interaction between the two sets of fans." However, Newcastle were given special dispensation to be excluded from the rule when they were promoted back to the top-flight in 2017."
"Any future decision to move away sections would have to be approved by the individual local authorities. Implementation would give both clubs a logistical headache, with potentially around 3,000 season ticket holders needing to be uprooted at each club to create the new away areas. Both teams already cater for supporters with disabilities, with lift access available at both stadiums."
Fans at Newcastle United and Sunderland face famously steep walks to reach away sections, with both grounds historically placing visiting supporters away from pitchside. Before the 2017-18 season, clubs agreed to ensure at least one pitchside block for visiting fans to improve atmospheres, with Richard Scudamore noting the value of interaction after away goals. Newcastle received special dispensation from the rule on their 2017 promotion, which has been extended. Sunderland could be required to relocate their away section before 2026-27 unless granted similar dispensation. Any moves would need local authority approval and could uproot thousands of season-ticket holders, though both clubs provide disability access and visitor safe-standing.
Read at www.bbc.com
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