Championship club Queens Park Rangers will open up a socially-distanced section at the Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium for fans concerned about attending football matches during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
English football venues have been able to open without restrictions since the start of the season in August, but social distancing will be in place in the School End Lower end of the stadium during QPR’s match against Blackburn Rovers later today (Tuesday).
QPR said that a number of supporters have not attended a fixture this season due to concerns relating to the pandemic, with one supporter getting in touch to express his issues regarding the lack of social distancing within football stadia.
As a result, the Lower School End will be capped to 30% capacity to implement stricter social distancing in this area of the stand. Supporters have also been asked to wear face coverings when entering and exiting the stand, and while not seated.
QPR hopes the socially-distanced area will provide fans with an extra degree of comfort when attending matches during the COVID-19 era. The club has chosen to trial the area on a Tuesday night, when the attendance is likely to be lower than it would be for a weekend match.
With the remainder of the stadium operating at full capacity and without social distancing, QPR has encouraged supporters to show “respect and consideration” towards their fellow fans.
The Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium now operates automated turnstiles. The Upper and Lower Loft catering facilities are also moving towards a cashless operation as QPR seeks to improve waiting times and efficiency in these areas.
Image: QPR
