Shrewsbury Town introduce new measures after safe standing area concerns

Measures are being introduced to tackle an “increase in unacceptable behaviour” within Shrewsbury Town’s safe standing area.

A wristband system will be reintroduced at the Croud Meadow for Saturday’s clash with Oldham Athletic, which will be the first game under the club’s new American owners.

The club said a “small minority” of supporters had been responsible for conduct within the section, with concerns also raised directly by fellow fans.

Shrewsbury, whose ground was home to the English Football League’s first safe standing area, have confirmed that supporters must present a valid match ticket for the section to stewards at turnstiles seven and eight. They will then be issued with a wristband to gain access.

“Shrewsbury Town has recently identified an increase in unacceptable behaviour from a small minority of supporters within the safe standing area,” a statement read.

“Concerns have also been raised directly with the club by fellow supporters regarding conduct within the section.”

It added: “Any supporter found within the safe standing area without both a valid ticket and wristband will be required to return to their allocated seat.

“Failure to comply with steward instructions may result in removal from the area or the stadium and could lead to further sanctions, including a club ban and, where appropriate, action by the relevant authorities, as would apply in all other areas of the stadium.”

Additional stewards and police officers will be deployed in and around the section, while “enhanced search procedures”, including hand-held metal detection wands, may also be in operation.

The club reiterated its pride in being the first EFL side to introduce safe standing, stressing that the area remains an important part of the matchday experience at the Croud Meadow.

It added: “Shrewsbury Town remains extremely proud to have been the first club in the EFL to introduce safe standing.

“The initiative was designed to enhance the matchday atmosphere and overall supporter experience, and it remains an important part of the identity of the Croud Meadow.

“However, its continued success depends upon supporters using the area responsibly and showing respect for fellow supporters, stewards and staff, particularly as we enter a new and exciting era for the football club.

“The overwhelming majority of supporters continue to do exactly that, and we thank them for their continued support and contribution to the excellent atmosphere at the Croud Meadow.

“Supporters who witness behaviour that falls below these standards are encouraged to report it to their nearest steward so that appropriate action can be taken.”