Statement on the University of Bolton Stadium

6 Mar 2019 04:21
Published by: Dave Fletcher

Bolton Council has confirmed it will not be issuing a prohibition notice to Bolton Wanderers after the club confirmed it will meet its legal obligations under the Safety of Sports Grounds Act 1975.

A meeting of the multi-agency Safety Advisory Group was held yesterday amid safety concerns at the University of Bolton Stadium.

SAG is a multi-agency panel which includes the council, Greater Manchester Police, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, North West Ambulance Service, St John Ambulance and a representative of Bolton Wanderers Football Club.

The club was given 24 hours to address specific concerns about stewarding levels as well as emergency and medical response.

Bolton Wanderers have since provided thorough reassurances that it can meet the requirements set out in the stadium’s general safety certificate.

The council is now confident that the club will be able to meet its safety obligations for upcoming home fixtures.

A spokesman for Bolton Council, speaking on behalf of SAG, said: “The SAG partners have done everything they can to support the club and we are pleased that a resolution has been found.

“Yesterday’s deadline was issued following close consultation with our partners in the emergency services and we have been in regular contact with the English Football League.

“The council has a legal responsibility to protect public safety and we will continue to monitor the situation at the stadium to ensure that agreed standards are being met.

“The safety of the public has been paramount throughout this process.

“Bolton Wanderers is at the heart of our community and we hope fans will understand we have to take these issues seriously.”

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