Luton Town will become the latest Premier League club to introduce safe standing at its stadium, while Kenilworth Road will also open its doors to the public as part of a ‘Warm Hub’ initiative in association with shirt sponsor Utilita Energy.
Luton will install licensed safe standing in Kenilworth Road’s Oak Road Stand, beginning with the away section this month. The club said it has been looking to introduce safe standing after receiving positive feedback from fans.
Work on installing the safe standing areas began after Luton’s recent FA Cup home match against Bolton Wanderers. Progress will depend on factors including any upcoming home cup matches, as well as television fixtures, as the club phases the installation between a few games.
It is necessary to start works in the away blocks initially, and the club is hoping to have the first section of safe standing installed in the home end in time for the match against Manchester United on February 18.
Once the new standing seats have been installed in the home end, each seat and barrier will be allocated to allow the club to operate at an increased capacity. These blocks will no longer have unreserved seating.
AFC Bournemouth recently announced plans to introduce safe standing at the Vitality Stadium, starting with its fixture against Manchester City on February 24.
In other news, Kenilworth Road will set a first for a UK football stadium by operating as a ‘Warm Hub’ from January 22-26.
A team of energy experts from Utilita will visit the stadium’s Eric Morecambe Lounge and John Moore Lounge to give tailored energy efficiency advice between 9am and 5pm.
Fans and residents interested in attending can turn up on the day and spend as long as they wish at the hub. Luton said that fans are welcome to use the space if they are in need of somewhere warm to spend the day, or want to speak to someone to combat loneliness.
Luton commercial director Chris Bell said: “We look forward to welcoming supporters and local residents to Kenilworth Road with the support of our main club partner Utilita.
“The Kenny is a special place where people come together to share experiences on a match day, we have seen some incredible days and nights in recent years. We will be opening lounges in the stadium as a place for members of our community to connect. We will provide a welcoming space to chat with refreshments, plus the chance to win special prizes donated by Utilita.”
