Plans to improve the facilities for disabled fans at Holker Street are already taking shape after the fantastic fundraising efforts of all involved in the recent 24-Hour football match.
The charity event, organised by Craig Rutherford of Barrow Community Trust, raised thousands to donate towards the development of players in the Barrow & District Junior Football League and also make a contribution to work at The Bluebirds’ stadium.
Bluebirds Director, Steve Herbert, has been leading on proposals to upgrade facilities for supporters and he hosted an open meeting at the Club back in May to gather thoughts and suggestions.
Since then, huge strides have been made and now the Club is investing funds alongside those raised by the charity match to significantly improve the matchday experience for disabled fans.
“The wonderful work of the two teams of players has enabled us to make a start on things as soon as possible,” Herbert explained.
“We used the great feedback from the last meeting to make the plans and have received agreement from the Board to press on with the improvements.”
The aim is to complete the work in time for the start of the new League Two campaign next month, with the following areas addressed initially:
- Upgrade and improvement to the current disabled areas to provide greater protection from the weather and improve comfort
- A new, larger area to be constructed at The Cross Bar end of the stadium with improved seating
- An upgrade to the toilet facilities
- Enhanced signage, incorporating a map for disabled supporters
There is now a second open meeting planned for 6.30pm on Monday 12th July in the Fan Zone to review the plans in more detail, take feedback, plan matchday operations and discuss the setting up of an official Disabled Supporters’ Association. All are welcome.