Big changes at Goodison to make Everton stadium more accessible

Everton have revealed a major new development project that will improve Goodison Park’s accessibility for disabled supporters.

Work in and around the stadium will kick off in the coming months in response to regulations agreed by the Premier League in 2015 in the Accessible Stadia Guidance (ASG).

The measures would include adding new elevated viewing positions for wheelchair users and making improvements to amenity and toilet access.

While the changes will see some existing seating removed, the club said that any season ticket holders affected will be contacted and relocation options will be provided.

The head of Everton Fan Services, Gill Derbyshire, said: “Goodison, as one of the oldest stadiums in the country, poses unique challenges in relation to the regulations.

“But the stadium manager and his team have worked hard to identify solutions that help the Club begin the process of meeting the regulations and we have held a series of consultation meetings with a number of supporters groups including the Everton Disabled Supporters’ Association.”

She continued: “There will be significant work taking place at the stadium this summer which will result new elevated wheelchair viewing positions as part of the project.

“We were the first Premier League club to employ a Disability Access Officer, one of the key requirements of the new standards. And we are determined to do our utmost to ensure the provision of services for our disabled fans continues to be developed and enhanced in order to improve further the match-going experience for all fans.”

The plans for the modifications will be submitted to Liverpool City Council at the end of January.

Steve Hennigan, chairman of the Everton Disabled Supporters Association (EDSA) said: “We are so pleased that Everton are making more changes to Goodison to improve access for disabled fans.

“The works, once complete, will greatly improve the experience on a matchday not only for our members but also disabled home and away supporters.”

He continued: “The changes will ensure more disabled supporters can now attend the game from our extensive disabled fan base.”

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