Dons launch fan survey as they reveal hopes for more test events at Pittodrie

Aberdeen FC have launched a survey asking fans for their views on getting back to Pittodrie.

It comes as the club has put together operational plans for hosting test events with increased numbers.

Under current restrictions, the club is not allowed to have spectators in the stadium. A move to level one or zero of the Scottish Government's tiered coronavirus restrictions would be required for that to happen.

However, the club are keen to find out fans' views on topics like how ready they are to return, what they are missing most about not going to games, and how they would travel to Pittodrie should they be able to attend.

The Dons hope the responses will provide evidence to support their case for more test events with larger crowds of at least 1,000 people.

Rob Wicks, commercial director at the club, said: "We recognise the virus continues to spread, affecting many families up and down the country, and further restrictions may be imposed. However, we want to be ready and able to proceed with test events as soon as is practicable.

"We would not be looking to press ahead with these test events if we thought there was any risk to supporters attending. We are confident in our rigorous approach to ensuring a highly-regulated test event with significant measures in place to protect supporters in an outdoor environment.

"Unlike an indoor cinema, supermarket or shopping centre for example, we will know exactly who will be in our stadium and be able to contact everyone attending."

Steven Gunn, director of football operations, said: "We are ready to host another test event and are hopeful that the significant mitigation we’re proposing to safely host supporters will allow us that opportunity sooner rather than later.

"Since the season started, we’ve been commended not only by the SPFL, but also the SFA and UEFA, on the standard and execution of our plans and protocols for match days at Pittodrie.

"Working across all areas of the club, we left no stone unturned in preparing the initial trial and that experience has informed an even more robust plan for future test events with increasing numbers, albeit still at a significantly reduced capacity. 

"Everyone connected with the club has worked tirelessly to plan and execute the first test event which was an overwhelming success. We’ve taken on board all the feedback from SPFL, the local authority and Police Scotland and made our plans even more robust."