The Real Story Behind the Derby Allocation Cut

The usual uninformed hordes have been quick to paint Celtic’s decision to withdraw Rangers’ away allocation for the next derby as a petty move that damages the spectacle of the fixture. But for those who want to understand the real reason behind this decision, it’s clear that Celtic have been left with little choice.

After our exclusive on Wednesday that Celtic pulled the allocation, we’ve been inundated with questions and read a lot of misinformation online.

Earlier this year, after extensive discussions, both clubs agreed to allow around 2,500 away fans for each SPFL Glasgow derby. This agreement was part of a broader effort to enhance the matchday experience and safety of fans attending the Game. However, the agreement came with specific conditions: new safety measures were to be installed at both grounds, including the installation of protective nets and the implementation of a safe entry and exit system. This final agreement was made public on March 29th, although the clubs had known and agreed for quite sometime before that. This was not an arbitrary process, it was vital to the agreement that these safety measures were actioned and adhered to. Celtic pulled the plug on the very small allocation in the corner of Ibrox after some of the Celtic fans in attendance were injured, one man struck with a glass bottle from the tier above requiring stitches on the scene. Clubs have a duty of care when they sell away ground tickets through their official channels. It was incredibly important to Celtic that these concerns were addressed to bring back away fans to the fixture.

The planning process.

According to planning application 24/00443/FUL (see image below), Celtic applied on February 15, 2024, and it was approved by GCC on March 14, 2024.

All this information can be verified on the Glasgow City Council (GCC) planning portal map website: https://publicaccess.glasgow.gov.uk/online-applications/spatialDisplay.do?action=display&searchType=Application

Celtic’s Swift Action

The approved design for the safety zones at Celtic Park demonstrates a well-thought-out strategy to manage crowd flow and avoid bottlenecks, particularly near the exits of the Lisbon Lions Stand and the North Stand. The placement of barriers at the top of the stairs is a crucial element, ensuring that the flow of fans is controlled to prevent crowd crushes.

Celtic also moved quickly to begin construction, notifying GCC that work would commence in early July. Malcolm Construction, the contractor responsible for both the safety zones and the training facilities, was tasked with erecting the necessary safety fencing. This early start was intended to minimise risks to the public and ensure all measures are in place for the new season.

No Action at Ibrox

While Celtic have taken decisive action, the same cannot be said for Rangers. Despite agreeing to the same safety measures, Rangers have yet to submit any planning applications to Glasgow City Council for the necessary work. A review of the GCC planning portal reveals no applications from Rangers related to safety zones for away fans, with the only submission focusing on the reconfiguration of an existing stand. [See images below]

This lack of progress has forced Celtic to withdraw their new ticket allocation agreement for the first derby of the season. Without Rangers actioning their end of the agreement, Celtic cannot risk the safety of their supporters in a potentially hazardous environment come January. Right now, Rangers can’t even tell their season ticket holders when they will be back at Ibrox.

Given that no Football is currently being played at Ibrox due to ongoing work at the venue, this period presented an ideal opportunity for the club to start the application process for additional improvements and to commence any necessary work. In reality, application and planning should have been done by now, knowing Celtic would be set to deliver the away allocation in the middle of August. It is strange that while there is no Football going on at Ibrox, these works have not even reached the planning stage. The longer they wait, surely any new installation will disrupt Rangers fans upon their return to the stadium.

Quite simply, it’s all talk and no action as of yet. Celtic’s decision to pull the ticket allocation reflects their commitment to ensuring that fan safety is not compromised. Until Rangers begin the work they agreed upon, it seems unlikely that Celtic will reverse their decision.

There’s nothing Petty about this, and those using this latest development to have a go at Celtic are doing so to further their own agenda. The Scottish champions have spent several thousand pounds making the necessary arrangements for September, only to look across the city and see nothing has been actioned. It’s regrettable, and hopefully, we see a shift in Rangers’ approach shortly.

For those who haven’t been up to Celtic Park, here are some images of the work that’s been completed outside the ground. As you will see, there is a decent amount of work involved, and this setup will have to be similar in Govan.