West Bromwich Albion have confirmed the completion of stadium improvements at The Hawthorns which mean the Baggies will meet Accessible Stadia minimum standards.
Albion, working closely with their Disabled Supporters Club throughout the process, will have met the terms of the Premier League access pledge in time for 2017-18 campaign.
The wide ranging developments include an increase in wheelchair user spaces, a sensory area, Changing Places toilets and improvements to accessibility in concourse areas which will transform the matchday experience for disabled supporters. In some cases, it will enable some disabled fans to experience a live football match for the first time.
Kevin Candon, Chairman of West Bromwich Albion Disabled Supporters Club was invited to The Hawthorns to check out the developments and said they were “absolutely first class”.
Club CEO Martin Goodman said: “We’re proud to be one of the first clubs to meet the recommendations.
“It’s a huge step forward in creating facilities for all supporters and a great opportunity for providing accessible facilities for both present and future fans.
“We consider ourselves a welcoming and inclusive club and look forward to new supporters enjoying these facilities.”
Level Playing Field Chair Tony Taylor was impressed with the improvements and said: “It is pleasing to see West Bromwich Albion meet the commitment made by all Premier League clubs to meet Accessible Stadia minimum standards in time for the 2017-18 season.
“We have been campaigning for these standards to be met across football for many years and are delighted that West Bromwich Albion have shown the necessary desire to make these improvements which will make the matchday experience more enjoyable, and equal, for disabled fans visiting The Hawthorns”
“We now look forward to other Premier League clubs meeting their pledge to disabled fans which they made back in August 2015. Level Playing Field is, of course, always prepared to work closely with clubs to ensure that football leads the way in terms of inclusivity and accessibility.”
Full West Bromwich statement here
Accessible Stadia (PDF)
14.07.17