CELTIC THIS AFTERNOON became the first British club to introduce rail seating as a new safe-standing section of the ground was opened for the friendly win over Wolfsburg.
The Scottish champions were granted a safe-standing licence last year and work has been ongoing over the summer months to transform one corner of Celtic Park.
The installation of the rail seating, which allows spectators to either stand or sit during the game, cost the club €600,000 after getting the green light from Glasgow City Council.
Celtic had two previous applications rejected amid concerns over the initiative’s safety, despite its success in Europe.
Fans got the chance to experience the safe-standing section for the first time this afternoon as they watched Brendan Rodgers’ side run out 2-1 winners.
Standing at English football fixtures was banned following the publication of the Taylor Report in 1990 and terraces were removed from Celtic Park four years later as the Scottish Football Association accepted it as the safety standard.
“Demand from supporters for a place in the revamped area has been huge as the club embarks on a new era under manager Brendan Rodgers,” a statement on the Celtic website read, as they unveiled the new area.
“The introduction of the rail seating section is seen as a significant investment in spectator safety by the club, allowing fans in the area to stand safely at matches.”
However, the club won’t be able to use the safe-standing area in the corner of the Lisbon Lions stand during European fixtures as Uefa don’t allow any spectators to stand in Champions League or Europa League competitions.
Celtic face Lincoln Red Imps at Parkhead on Tuesday as they look to overturn the first-leg deficit following last week’s embarrassing defeat.
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