That's a long, long time ago Nardendee
Joking aside it's probably 60 years since that was 'the norm' and leading up to NYS 3-4,000 was more the norm. Admittedly the DVS factor didn't help but if it was my money I don't think I'd be investing in expanding NYS at this point in time.
As for people not buying season tickets because of not being able to get them together/near their mates? If that really is an issue then the club should get creative with offering small incentives to get people to move (a couple of seats/rows) to accommodate newcomers.