The Government are considering allowing safe standing at all Premier League and Championship grounds next season, following a successful trial this term.
Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston said he had been encouraged by the pilot scheme involving five clubs and is now minded to alter all-seater legislation to give all stadiums in the top two tiers the option to install safe standing sections ahead of the new campaign.
Premier League sides Chelsea, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham have all utilised safe standing as part of the pilot during the second half of the season, as have Championship outfit Cardiff.
A number of other top-flight sides have already expressed an interest in introducing safe standing, with Brentford having already announced plans to install barrier seating in a section of their new home, while Arsenal have undergone a fan consultation over the potential for a designated standing area at the Emirates.
A firm decision on more widespread rollout will not be made until a final independent evaluation of the trial is complete.
“The Government's approach has been driven by safety considerations throughout and this will continue to be our priority,” Huddleston added.
“We are not complacent about spectator safety, nor are we complacent about the safety policies that have served spectators well for many years.
“We will continue to work closely with the Sports Grounds Safety Authority, football clubs, the football governing bodies and local authorities to ensure that spectator safety remains paramount.”
