We would like to again thank members, and the fanbase more generally, for their support following our recent “Call to Action” regarding access issues at the Stadium. We also want to provide an update on further developments relating to the ongoing works and invite supporters to complete a short survey focused on concerns around the proposed final design and future stadium access arrangements once the project is complete. The survey can be completed at:
https://forms.gle/h4fm4NBDBw6Xycjw6
Firstly, we would like to thank Falkirk Council for engaging in a helpful and constructive meeting regarding the ongoing works outside the Stadium. We are pleased to advise that the majority of the disruptive works outside the Stadium are currently anticipated to be completed by August. However, significant concerns remain regarding the impact of the final road layout, particularly around pedestrian access arrangements and the suitability of the proposed crossing points for supporters travelling to and from matches.
During our discussions, a number of potential measures were suggested which the Council felt the Club may wish to consider, and these have now been passed on for further consideration. However, we continue to maintain that this is not an issue the Club can resolve independently and that meaningful improvements will require cooperation and action from a number of parties.
The Council also arranged for a pedestrian survey to be carried out towards the end of the season, alongside surveys conducted on two additional days during the same week for comparison purposes. This work is intended to provide a clearer understanding of pedestrian movement and traffic flows before and after matches. The findings are now being analysed, and the Council has advised that their conclusions will be shared as soon as they are available, and hopefully by the end of May. We are hopeful that this work will support the case for more pedestrian-friendly crossings and safer access arrangements as part of the final design.
It has become increasingly clear through our discussions that, while the Council has engaged positively with the concerns raised, there remains a degree of scepticism regarding the scale and seriousness of supporter concerns around stadium access and safety. From our perspective, and based on the many conversations we have had with supporters throughout the season, we have been clear that this is a significant issue affecting the matchday experience for many fans. We are therefore pleased that this view has now been reinforced through the 2025/26 Bairns Survey. Although full analysis is still ongoing, Stadium Access was once again identified by supporters as the area most in need of improvement. The volume and consistency of comments submitted on this topic paint a concerning picture and highlight the need for action to be taken. We have collated these comments and shared them with Falkirk Council, and a summary of the key themes can be found below.
The overwhelming theme from responses was concern around pedestrian safety and access to and from the Stadium, particularly in relation to the ongoing roadworks surrounding the ground. Some supporters described the current situation as “an accident waiting to happen”, with repeated references to unsafe road crossings, inadequate footpaths, poor lighting, traffic congestion, and the lack of separation between pedestrians and vehicles before and after matches.
A significant number of supporters highlighted serious concerns around fans and vehicles sharing the same exit routes at full time, with numerous reports of near misses involving pedestrians and frustrated drivers. Many felt that exiting the Stadium (whether by foot, car, or bus) had become chaotic and, at times, dangerous.Accessibility concerns were also raised frequently, particularly in relation to elderly supporters, families, and those with mobility issues. Long diversions, uneven or poorly maintained paths, limited lighting, and the absence of safe crossing points were all highlighted as barriers to attending matches safely and comfortably. Several supporters also expressed concern that the current situation is beginning to negatively impact the wider matchday experience and, in some cases, may discourage attendance altogether.
While many supporters acknowledged that the roadworks and wider infrastructure project are outwith the direct control of Falkirk FC, there was a strong feeling that continued pressure must be applied to Falkirk Council, contractors, Police Scotland, and other relevant stakeholders to ensure supporter safety is prioritised and meaningful improvements are delivered. There were repeated calls for improved traffic management, clearer and safer walking routes, temporary crossing arrangements, and greater stewarding or police presence to help manage crowds and vehicle movements after matches.
We recognise that, with the works between the Fire Station and the Westfield roundabout expected to near completion in the coming months, supporters should begin to see some reduction in disruption and the reopening of additional walking routes. However, we continue to maintain that the proposed final design may still not be sufficient to safely manage crowds of 7,000+ supporters leaving the ground at full time. While the current proposals include a signalised crossing arrangement at the Westfield roundabout, as well as a further crossing point near the Fire Station roundabout, there remain concerns that the overall crossing arrangements could create significant congestion and bottlenecks at full time. In particular, there are concerns that supporters may still feel forced into taking unsafe measures to cross the new dual carriageway if pedestrian flows are not managed appropriately.
To assist further with the Council’s understanding of the issues, and to help evidence the urgency and scale of supporter concerns, we are now asking members to complete a short survey specifically focused on future stadium access arrangements once the works are complete. We hope this will help demonstrate clearly whether supporters believe the proposed final design is appropriate for the volume of footfall generated on matchdays.
We would once again encourage all members and supporters to take part and help ensure our voices continue to be heard clearly and collectively on this important issue.
Complete the survey here https://forms.gle/h4fm4NBDBw6Xycjw6
