Safety Group Update

Last updated : 06 June 2007 By Editor
Following the reduction in capacity for the start of next season, due to accusations of heavy handed stewarding at the last home game with Barnet, which ultimately cost the Stags a reduction to under 5,000 capacity at the ground, the club has met with Safety Chiefs this week in order to resolve the issue.

With a 5,000 minimum capacity criteria needed to enter the football league, some are worried that if the issue is not resolved quickly, the Stags could be forced to either play their first few games away from Field Mill, or even worse, be thrown out of the league altogether.

A new Safety officer has even been apointed at the ground recently, Les Norman taking up the role, and his first task is to help get the capacity back up to normal.

The council's emergency planning manager Sue Storey told the Mansfield CHAD this week: "We had a very positive meeting (with the club) and discussed a range of issues how we can work with the club to improve safety.

"The SAG are very encouraged by the appointment of Mr Norman and look forward to working with him. We will continue to monitor the situation on a regular basis at the ground, including the pre-season friendlies.

"They seem determined to take positive action to get back up to full capacity as soon as possible and we are very encouraged by the efforts the club are making to address the concerns we had at the end of last season."

On Stags being able to start the new season with no restrictions, Sue added: "Criteria for starting the season is a matter between the club and the Football League, but I don't think it cut and dried that they would be thrown out.

"We will monitor the pre-season games and, if we can, we will look to increase the capacity before their first home game."