Newcastle United will introduce "safe standing" at St James' Park for the first time next season.
It means that for the first time since 1995 fans will be able to stand in a designated section at St James' with the Gallowgate End's Strawberry Corner selected for use next term.
A club statement read: "United can announce that licensed standing - commonly known as 'safe standing' - will be introduced at St. James' Park as part of an initial trial period at the start of the 2023/24 season.
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"A designated licensed standing section with space for approximately 1,800 home supporters will be installed in the South East Corner of the stadium and will include the lower section of block B and the upper sections of blocks C, D, E and F. A similar provision will also be installed for visiting supporters on Level 7 of the Leazes End.
"The trial follows a supporter consultation process, during which more than 4,000 fans responded to an online survey - with 70 fans attending a subsequent working group session at St. James' Park to provide more detailed feedback. Of those surveyed online, 75 per cent were in favour of licensed standing being introduced at St. James' Park - with the South East Corner and Gallowgate End identified as the preferred location by more than 70 per cent of respondents.
"The club has also continued to monitor existing trials at other stadiums in England, with licensed standing areas successfully installed and safely managed at Wembley and a number of Premier League grounds with the support of the Sports Ground Safety Authority (SGSA)."
The club has now contacted all affected supporters via email, giving them the opportunity to remain as part of the trial or opt out.
United say: "We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and ensuring access for all. Season ticket holders who have informed us they have a disability will receive a call directly from the Supporter Services team over the coming days as we look to ensure your matchday experience is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible."
Fans were also advised by the club on how to move seats, United commented: "Should seats become available for other season ticket holders to move into the licensed standing area, the club will communicate this in due course.
"In the meantime, we kindly ask supporters not to contact the Box Office to register their interest in moving seats from other areas of the stadium."
What do you think about safe standing at St James' Park? Join the conversation in the comments below.
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