The Football Association has announced a ban on concrete, brick, and breeze block perimeter barriers around football pitches at Non-League levels, effective from the 2026-27 season. This decision follows a comprehensive review of ground safety prompted by the tragic death of Billy Vigar, who died after sustaining a severe brain injury in a collision with a perimeter wall during a match between Chichester City and Wingate & Finchley.
Under the updated Stadium Accreditation Criteria, solid barriers of this nature will no longer be permitted at Steps 1-6 of the National League System for men, as well as in the Women’s National League at Tiers 3 and 4. Clubs currently using these structures are required to remove them "as soon as reasonably practicable" or, if removal is not feasible due to structural reasons, to cover them with appropriate protective materials.
The FA has informed all affected clubs of the new regulations and emphasized the importance of ongoing safety assessments of pitch perimeters. While matches may continue at grounds with these barriers during the transition period, clubs are expected to develop and implement plans to make necessary changes within a reasonable timeframe to ensure player safety.
In collaboration with the Premier League, the FA is providing financial support to assist clubs in complying with the new standards through the Premier League Stadium Fund. This funding initiative, already in its initial phase, aims to facilitate the removal or modification of hazardous barriers and enhance safety infrastructure across affected grounds.
The review process was carried out with input from independent health and safety experts and is part of a broader effort to reduce risks associated with ground structures in Non-League football. The FA’s statement highlighted the commitment to improving safety measures in stadiums and grounds used throughout the National League System and Women’s National League.
In a related development, Chichester City has introduced new kits as a tribute to Billy Vigar. The shirts feature a design incorporating angel wings within a heart symbol representing BV, created in partnership with sportswear manufacturer Joma and supporter and graphic designer Declan McGreal. Billy’s father, Keith Vigar, expressed gratitude for the support shown by the club, describing the new kits as "a fitting example of keeping Billy’s memory alive."