Oxford United officials are getting to grips with two unexpected problems at their new Kassam Stadium - more than 100 seats that have restricted views, and supporters who find their seats don't exist!
The £15m stadium was hailed as a state-of-the-art arena with 100 per cent unobstructed views from its 12,500 seats.
But that hasn't turned out to be exactly true. Thick metal safety barriers above the stairway entrances in the South Stand have left dozens of spectators with restricted views of the pitch.
"We're very disappointed by this," said United secretary Mick Brown. "It's something which I never in my wildest dreams expected, having carefully studied all the plans, because we were always told everywhere was going to have an unobstructed view
"Through no fault of ours, and no fault of theirs, a number of people who have purchased seats have found they are restricted seats.
"It's unfortunate and we have had to relocate quite a few fans, but we always said we would be happy to move season ticket holders if they weren't happy either with the view from their seat or with the people they find themselves next to.
"Some, who were in the prime-view centre area of the South Stand, have moved to sponsors and executive seats on the understanding they might have to give them up on occasions.
"We have tried to give these people the best available alternatives and we have moved a few from around the dug-out area in the lower tier. The view looks OK, but because the fourth official and coaches move around in their technical area, this also becomes restricted."
Brown says he will personally try out all the restricted view seats himself and work out a sliding scale for how much each should be sold for, though they would only go on sale in the event of a near full house.
"Another issue we have come across is checking whether every seat in our plan is actually there."
One or two fans have found their seats don't exist.
"This is something we need to address as soon as possible, and certainly before the Gillingham game next Tuesday. It means effectively checking every seat in the stadium."
Birse are still working hard in putting the finishing touches to the stadium. The directors' facilities, one of the last areas of the ground to be completed, are expected to be open on Tuesday.
UNITED are again offering a hot and cold buffet pre-match dinner in the Quadrangle Suite Restaurant before the Gillingham match, priced £15. Details on 01865 337509.
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