Source: Man_City
City quick to defend ticket price increase
Manchester City have announced an average five per cent increase in ticket prices for next season. But the Blues will also introduce a new Valuecard - for fans wanting "no frills" football - which will be the second cheapest deal in the Premier League. Other fans will face higher prices but a City spokeswoman says the increase is offset by the fact that prices were cut on average by seven per cent last season, and will be linked to improved services and a better matchday experience. Seasoncard prices started at £369 for an adult this season. The Valuecards, which are limited in number, will cost £250, or £13 a game, a decrease of 32 per cent on the current lowest price. Only Blackburn offer a cheaper deal. Seasoncard prices for under-16s in the Family Stand will be pegged at £95, and some fans will see a decrease in price, with details to be sent to fans in the next few days. A City spokeswoman defended the rise, saying: "This is only the second time since we moved to the new stadium in 2003 that we have increased any prices - and fans who don't want to pay more will be able to move and pay less. "Even with the average rise, we will still be mid-table in the Premier League in terms of ticket prices, even though we are currently top five in terms of league position. "We are also aiming to segment the stadium, in response to feedback from our fans, so that fans who want to have a drink and chant will be together, and those in the family stand will have better facilities." United have frozen prices for next season after pressure from supporters' groups. "Our top seasoncard prices will still be between a third and a quarter of those paid at the top four clubs," said the spokeswoman. Despite the wealth of owner Sheikh Mansour, the Blues need to run the club on an even keel, due to Uefa's impending Financial Fair Play rules, which mean they will only be able to spend what they earn by 2015. They also face a £3m bill for City Street, the first phase of the redevelopment plans for the stadium, which they hope to have in place by next season. That is one of several improvements to the stadium planned for next year, with children's entertainers, children's TV and family-orientated stewarding planned for family areas. Chief executive Garry Cook said: "Our fans are at the heart of our club and our absolute priority is to deliver a premium matchday experience to them, wherever they sit in the ground. "The range of options which is now on offer is as a result of both direct supporter feedback and a huge amount of effort and innovative thought by my team. "We are showing a continued commitment to families and young supporters as well as offering a value product for adults and we will develop improved packages in the seasons to come." What is your verdict on the changes? Have your say.| Submit Comments| Comments (129)| PrintWhat's this? Emaildel.icio.usDiggredditFacebookStumbleUponNewsvineGoogle BookmarksNetscapeTechnoratiWindows LiveYahoo! MyWebMa.gnolia
