Tuesday 16 August 2016 21:17, UK
West Ham have had their safety certificate approved for increased capacity of up to 57,000 people for their first Premier League game at their new home.
The club had sought approval for a 60,000 capacity at the London stadium for the Sky Live game against Bournemouth and are still hoping to achieve that in the coming weeks but Newham Council has agreed an initial increase of 3,000 for this Sunday's match.
A Safety Advisory Group identified a problem with persistent standing in an all-seater stadium during the Europa League qualifier against NK Domzale.
Vice Chairman Baroness Brady CBE said: "As a Board we must follow the guidance as set out by the London stadium Safety Advisory Group to ensure more supporters are able to attend matches at our stunning new home.
"While an increased capacity of 57,000 is naturally a significant step forward for all concerned, we absolutely aim to operate at the full 60,000 capacity in the very near future.
"We respect the decision of LSSAG and Newham Council and will work closely with them, and with our supporters, so that we are able to reach a 60,000 capacity in the coming weeks.
"The LSSAG have identified that standing in an all-seater stadium is dangerous and that we must continue to communicate this to our supporters."
The increased capacity means only Old Trafford (75,635) and the Emirates (60,432) can host larger crowds in the Premier League.
