CLUB STATEMENT | Stadium Capacity
Chester Football Club can advise supporters a reduced capacity will be in operation at the Deva Stadium for the start of the 2023/24 season.
The restriction has been introduced following a meeting of the Safety Advisory Group (SAG) that included a review of the crowd disorder at the Brackley Town match on May 7.
During this period, the club will have to adhere to a maximum capacity of 3,368. A review of this figure has been scheduled for November; however, this date can be brought forward should the club meet agreed criteria.
We understand and accept the reasons for this decision and reiterate our absolute commitment to ensuring the safety of everyone who visits the Deva Stadium.
As a club, we will work with the Safety Advisory Group’s stakeholders to demonstrate our ability to operate in a safe manner so the stadium capacity can return to normal levels as soon as possible.
A further update on any changes to our matchday operations will be provided in due course, but it is likely that matches played under these restrictions will be advance ticket only with no matchday sales, and the number of match tickets available for each game will be greatly reduced. We are able to confirm all season ticket holders will continue to have access to their reserved seats in the East and West Stands, or Harry McNally Terrace.
This incident has damaged our reputation, finances and undermined the hard work of the volunteers, staff and fans who have worked hard to build a supporter-owned, community football club for Chester.
It is with immense frustration that we must bear the consequences of the wanton actions of a minority, and we ask all supporters for their understanding during this process.
These sanctions will have financial implications for the club; therefore, it is important the capacity restriction is lifted as soon as possible; however, this is reliant on all fans inside the stadium behaving responsibly and abiding with the ground regulations, and ensuring those who cannot do so, are no longer welcomed.
Thank you for your continued support.
Cheshire Police are continuing to investigate the disorder at the Brackley Town match.
Following the conclusion of the game, a large number of supporters entered the pitch, attempting to gain access to the away supporters stand.
During the incident a number of missiles were thrown towards the Brackley Town fans and onto the pitch.
As part of their enquiries into the incident, officers have now issued CCTV images of 13 people that they would like to speak to in relation to these offences.
https://youtu.be/DPkG8I-nn9Y
Police Constable James Wright from Chester Proactive Team, said: “This pitch invasion was unprovoked and serious disorder ensued. Cheshire Constabulary along with Chester Football Club are committed to doing all we can to identify the people responsible.
“I would urge anyone with any information in relation to the incident to get in touch.
“I would also like to appeal directly to the men in the images to come forward and speak to me directly.
“Anyone with any information should contact Cheshire Police on 101, or forward it on via our website, quoting IML 1539302.”
Information can also be reported anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.