Pitch Perimeter Changes Put Ground Safety In Focus

Clubs across the National League System and Women’s National League are being asked to review their pitch perimeter barriers following changes to The FA’s Stadium Accreditation Criteria for the 2026-27 season.

The FA has introduced revised criteria relating to pitch perimeter barriers following a phased review of grounds across the National League System and Women’s National League. The review was undertaken to identify potential safety risks and determine where improvements could be made to help clubs provide safer environments for players, officials, staff and supporters.

One of the most significant changes is the removal of solid brick, breeze block and concrete barriers from the permitted forms of pitch perimeter protection following the death of Chichester City FC player Billy Vigar in September 2025 after he collided with a concrete wall during an away match, suffering a significant brain injury.

Under the new criteria, these types of solid barriers are no longer permitted around pitches across Steps 1-6 of the National League System for men, and Tiers 3-4 of the Women’s National League. For clubs with existing solid barriers, The FA has stated that these should be removed as soon as reasonably practicable.

Where removal is not possible because of structural reasons, suitable protection should be installed. The changes are likely to have a particular impact on clubs operating from older grounds, where pitch perimeter infrastructure may have been installed many years ago and developed as part of the gradual evolution of the stadium.

Managing the transition

While clubs are required to address the new criteria, matches can continue to be played at affected grounds during the transition period. Clubs are expected to assess the safety of their pitch perimeter barriers on an ongoing basis and, where alterations have been recommended as part of the review, develop a plan to complete the necessary work within a reasonable timeframe.

This phased approach recognises the practical and financial challenges involved in making infrastructure changes during an active football season. For many clubs outside the professional game, major stadium improvements must be carefully planned around fixture schedules, available resources and other operational demands.

Having a clear plan in place will therefore be an important part of meeting the revised requirements. The FA has already notified clubs at the relevant levels that will be required to take action as a result of the changes.

Funding available

A key element of the programme is the financial support being made available to clubs. The FA and the Premier League will provide funding to facilitate the required changes, with the programme being administered by the Premier League Stadium Fund. The initial phase of the programme is already underway, with clubs receiving support throughout the process.

Typically, the Premier League Stadium Fund will contribute 70% towards the cost of new pitch perimeter barriers, with the club responsible for the remaining 30% of the overall project cost. However, additional support is available where clubs are required to remove or protect existing solid brick, breeze block or concrete barriers.

In these circumstances, a grant of up to 100% may be available, potentially removing a significant financial obstacle for clubs that need to undertake substantial remedial work.

Clubs requiring further information have been advised to speak to their Premier League Stadium Fund Technical Manager or contact the fund via: stadiumpower@stadiumpower.org.uk

A wider safety focus

The changes represent more than simply a new stadium compliance requirement. They reflect a wider focus on the safety and suitability of football infrastructure across the National League System and Women’s National League.

For clubs, the review provides an opportunity to take a broader look at their pitch perimeter arrangements and consider how improvements can support the overall safety of their ground.

While the immediate requirement is to address unsuitable solid barriers, clubs undertaking this work may also wish to consider factors such as spectator movement, stewarding, emergency access and the overall matchday environment as part of their wider stadium planning.

For clubs operating from historic grounds, the availability of funding could also provide an opportunity to address infrastructure issues that may otherwise have been difficult to prioritise. Ultimately, the revised criteria place greater responsibility on clubs to identify and manage potential risks around the pitch perimeter.

As the 2026/27 season progresses, the changes will mark another important step in improving ground safety standards across the National League System and Women’s National League.

Find out if your club is eligible for funding support at: www.premierleaguestadiumfund.co.uk/barriers-grant-information

Image: Getty Images/Clive Brunskill