In response to security concerns at the Hibernian and Falkirk matches, the club has performed a review of its safety procedures.
The club’s safety officer has coordinated with local police and our stewarding provider to determine how risks can be reduced at future matches. As a result of this review, three changes have been instituted:
(1) The Ormond Stand will open 30 minutes earlier prior to kick-off. Previously, away fans could not enter the stand until 60 minutes before kick-off. This, on occasion, left them in the parking areas where home fans would walk from their cars. Allowing them to enter the stadium 90 minutes before kick-off will help to alleviate this risk.
(2) An extended 60 feet temporary secure cordon is now in place at the rear of the Ormond Stand which will direct visiting supporters, post-match, away from the corner of the East Stand and in the general direction of the bus parking area. Extra stewards, along with police, will be deployed in this area both pre and post-match to assist supporters, especially at full time, egressing from the stadium and car park areas. All vehicles will be held back approximately 10 minutes to allow pedestrians to safely navigate their way through the car parks, with scoreboard messages being displayed during the match to update supporters of this practice.
(3) Along with extra stewards, the police will assist in taking earlier action to disperse any groups of away fans that congregate in the parking areas where home fans park or walk to the stadium. Early action can help prevent the assembly of large groups as occurred at previous matches. Due to this, you may see increased numbers of stewards and police in certain areas during busy times.
Francis Smith, CEO of St Johnstone FC, said: “Our priority is to ensure that everyone attending McDiarmid Park feels safe, supported and able to enjoy the experience.
“We value the views of our supporters and are committed to taking practical steps to address any concerns that are shared with us. We continue to encourage open and constructive feedback to help us shape improvements for the future.”
Russell Gillespie, football safety and security officer, said: “My role at the club is to maximise the safety of all persons in and around McDiarmid Park, to ensure the club conform to all the conditions of the general safety certificate issued by Perth and Kinross Council but to also facilitate the enjoyment of those attending the event.
“Both at the planning stages and during the event, I will strive to meet the aforementioned objectives, but I am always open to suggestions and new ideas on how things can be done differently to improve the matchday experience for everyone.”
