The EFL has today been informed that the Safety Advisory Group (SAG), responsible for issuing the general safety certificate at Bolton Wanderers, has placed a prohibition notice on the Club under the Safety of Sports Grounds Act 1975.
As a result, all supporters will be prevented from entering the University of Bolton Stadium until the Club can demonstrate that the stadium can deliver the matchday operation to the standard required.
Prior to the meeting, called by the SAG, the Club confirmed it would be unable to commit to meet the obligations of its safety certificate until after a scheduled appearance at the High Court tomorrow (3 April).
SAG members concluded this would be a challenging timeframe to put an adequate plan in place to protect the safety of fans during upcoming home fixtures against Ipswich Town on Saturday 6 April and Middlesbrough on Tuesday 9 April.
The EFL is currently engaged with the Club in regard to how they intend to meet their fixture obligations.
SAG is a multi-agency panel which includes Bolton Council, Greater Manchester Police, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, North West Ambulance Service and St John Ambulance.
An EFL Spokesman said: “Whilst disappointed, the EFL understands the rationale for the position taken by the SAG at this time. However, we still hope the fixtures will take place as planned. We will work with the Club and offer them any practical assistance that is available to us in an attempt to find a successful and timely resolution to the issue.”