Nottingham Forest plans Hillsborough memorial at City Ground

Nottingham Forest has initiated discussions regarding a memorial for the victims of the Hillsborough disaster, which occurred in April 1989 during an FA Cup semi-final match against Liverpool. This tragic event resulted in the deaths of 97 individuals and is recognized as the worst sporting disaster in the UK. The club is considering various ideas, including a memorial bench outside the City Ground, akin to the one located at Anfield, Liverpool's stadium. The club's officials have engaged with the Hillsborough Survivors’ Alliance (HSA) and their fans’ advisory board to ensure that the memorial is approached with sensitivity. Nottingham Forest acknowledges that they could have taken more action in the past to honor the victims and recognize the impact of the tragedy on both clubs. Recently, a 30ft banner condemning tragedy chanting was displayed during a match at Anfield, highlighting the club's commitment to addressing the issue. Future discussions are planned, and the memorial concept may be integrated into the club's redevelopment plans for the City Ground. Nottingham Forest is also in the process of acquiring nearby housing to facilitate these development efforts. The club aims to increase the stadium's capacity from 30,000 to 42,000 by constructing two new stands, which would enhance the matchday experience for fans. Overall, the initiative reflects Nottingham Forest's desire to honor the memory of those lost in the Hillsborough disaster while fostering a respectful relationship with the HSA and Liverpool FC. The club is determined to ensure that the memorial serves as a poignant reminder of the tragedy and its lasting impact on the football community.