The Supporters Club & Trust are somewhat baffled by the timing and pricing strategy for the 2018/19 season tickets. In what appears to be a concerted effort to free up arguably the best and most lucrative seats, the impact has fallen squarely on parents with children under 12 who are facing an increase in price for the child’s seat from £50 currently to £335 next season if they wish to stay where they sit at present, often with other family members and friends.
Whilst we were not consulted in this instance, FAN was asked for opinions in January but not given the opportunity to offer any feedback on the proposed pricing structure before it was announced yesterday. We have all been taken a bit by surprise, especially with just 3 weeks to find the cash to retain our seats when the season still has 2 months to run.
We recognise that the entry-level price to watch, what will at least be Championship (or possibly Premier League) football, is still good. What is hard to reconcile is that this decision impacts hardest the loyal supporters who are bringing their kids along to a stadium that is not sold out each week. Whilst we all want success for our football club, we would argue that this should not come at any price.
Come on the Bristol City Board, we urge you to revise your thinking on this one. Withdraw these proposals and commit to some meaningful consultation by meeting with fans next Wednesday evening at 7.30pm in the Supporters Bar.