West Ham security firm won’t be sacked due to 30-year deal

LoNDoN STaDiuM 185, the security agency that oversaw shambolic scenes including four pitch invasions during West Ham’s 3-0 defeat against Burnley, will stay in charge of the London Stadium. But LS185’s stewards will almost certainly be supported by police inside the stadium for the next home game against Southampton on March 31.

Sportsmail reported yesterday that West Ham want to take security measures out of the hands of LS185, who operate the stadium on a day-to-day basis and are responsible for match-day stewarding and safety. Yet it is understood that LS185 began a 30-year agreement with the London Legacy Development corporation (LLDc) in February 2015, meaning it is highly unlikely the security agency will relinquish control. Meetings between stakeholders have taken place during the past three days. The Safety advisory Group will meet on Thursday and it is expected police will be deployed inside the stadium to prevent further pitch invasions or mob scenes around the directors’ box. LLDc insist that they have the financial means to deploy the police. The stadium owners foot the bill for security and stewarding, although West Ham contribute by making a £2.5million annual payment for use of the stadium. This, however, is widely regarded as a bargain and there is a possibility West Ham will offer a greater contribution to gain a broader influence over match-day security.