Critical assessment of evidence related to the 1989 Hillsborough Stadium disaster, UK

Abstract

The Hillsborough Stadium disaster that unfolded on the Leppings Lane terrace of Sheffield Wednesday Football Club’s ground in Sheffield, UK, on 15 April 1989 resulted in 96 fatalities. Evidence presented to the initial 1989 inquiry, the 1991 civil court case and the 2016 inquest is critically assessed, together with additional relevant research findings. The matters discussed are concerned with fundamental technical principles that provide for spectator safety on terraces such as that on which the disaster unfolded. This paper examines the significance as to the lack of compliance with the applicable guidance. The terrace barrier testing undertaken prior to the disaster is examined and considered inadequate.