Hull City FC Choose Ferco Seating for Safe Standing Upgrade at MKM Stadium
Project Overview
Ahead of the 2025/26 season, Hull City FC appointed Ferco Seating to deliver a major safe standing transformation at the MKM Stadium, creating nearly 2,700 licensed safe standing spaces across home and away supporter areas.
The project forms part of the club's commitment to improving spectator safety while enhancing the matchday atmosphere. Following consultation with the Sports Grounds Safety Authority (SGSA) and the stadium's Safety Advisory Group, Hull City selected Ferco Seating to oversee the installation of the safe standing infrastructure.
The Challenge
Like many modern football clubs, Hull City recognised that supporters in certain areas of the stadium regularly chose to stand throughout matches. The club sought a solution that would:
• Improve supporter safety in persistent standing areas
• Comply with the SGSA’s Green Guide requirements
• Maintain existing seating capacity
• Deliver a cost-effective and practical installation
• Enhance the atmosphere for both home and away supporters
With almost 2,700 seats identified for conversion, the solution needed to be robust, reliable and suitable for long-term use within a busy multi-purpose stadium environment.
The Solution
Ferco Seating supplied its Independent Barrier system, a safe standing solution designed specifically for venues wishing to retain existing seats while introducing licensed standing areas. Based on the same proven engineering principles used throughout Ferco's rail seating range, the independent barriers are installed along the front of each seating row, creating a defined standing space for every supporter while helping to prevent progressive crowd collapse.
The galvanised steel barriers are designed to meet Green Guide load resistance requirements of 1.5kN/m and feature bespoke nylon fittings to eliminate metal-on-metal pinch points. Their floor-mounted design provides exceptional strength while allowing clubs to retain their existing seating infrastructure.
Installation Scope
The safe standing upgrade included:
• 1,574 spaces within designated home supporter areas
• 1,105 spaces within the away supporter section
• Installation across the upper rows of the North Stand and East Stand
• Safe standing provision designed in accordance with SGSA guidance
The project was completed during the stadium's close season, ensuring the new facilities were ready for supporters ahead of the new campaign.
Why Ferco Independent Barriers?
Ferco's Independent Barrier system was selected because it offers clubs a practical route to licensed safe standing without the need for a full rail seat conversion.
Key benefits include:
• Robust floor-mounted construction
• Compatibility with existing seating layouts
• Green Guide compliant design
• Long-life galvanised steel finish
• Cost-efficient alternative to rail seating
• Flexible installation options, including supply-only or full installation services
The system enables clubs to improve safety standards while preserving seating infrastructure and delivering the standing experience many supporters prefer.
The Result
The completed project has transformed key supporter areas within the MKM Stadium, providing a safer and more structured standing environment for thousands of fans.
By working with Ferco Seating, Hull City have successfully introduced licensed safe standing areas that enhance spectator safety, improve crowd management and contribute to a more vibrant matchday atmosphere, while retaining the flexibility and value offered by existing seating arrangements.
Looking Ahead
The Hull City project further strengthens Ferco Seating's growing portfolio of safe standing installations across the UK, demonstrating how Independent Barriers can provide an effective, compliant and economical solution for clubs seeking to modernise their spectator facilities.
For clubs considering the introduction of safe standing, Ferco Independent Barriers offer a proven route to delivering safer, more engaging supporter experiences at a highly competitive price.
Media Coverage
BBC Video - https://www.facebook.com/bbchumberside/videos/1232687637992269/
BBC Article - https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8rpyzv8526o
