THE capacity at the Deva Stadium has been increased for Chester’s first home game since the new club was formed.
Cheshire West and Chester Council has agreed to an increase for Chester Football Club’s historic first home league game, against Prescot Cables, on August Bank holiday Monday.
The decision follows hard work by the club to increase the available number of trained stewards to about 60 – more than required for a normal league game – plus a little help from their neighbours.
Traditional rivals Wrexham and Tranmere Rovers have agreed to loan stewards when necessary to help Chester’s successful rebirth.
The Stadiums’ Safety Advisory Group has now agreed to increase the Deva’s capacity by 830 from 2,768 to 3,598, with all parts of the ground being open.
CWAC chief executive Steve Robinson said: “The club has worked hard to achieve this progress over a relatively short time. I’m delighted that we have been able to agree the improvement for the first home game.
“Help from the club’s traditional rivals sends out a tremendous message for football at a time when many smaller clubs are struggling.
“While we are still some way from the full capacity of 5,500, at this rate of progress it won’t be long before that is achievable.
“The club has shown admirable commitment to spectator safety and I hope it will be rewarded with a bumper gate.”
Club chairman Chris Pillsbury said: “Obviously the board is new to this process and I would like to thank everyone concerned for their help in enabling us to progress so quickly.
“Having the extra capacity is vital because we are expecting a good crowd for our first home game, a historic moment for the new club and hopefully, a wonderful bank holiday occasion.”
Chester’s chairman appealed to all fans, including season ticket holders, to arrive early for the match.