Highfield (stadium)

Highfield was a football stadium located in the Highfield area of Coventry, England. It served as the home ground of Coventry City F.C. from 1899 to 2005.

History:

Prior to moving to Highfield, Coventry City (then known as Singers F.C. and later Coventry City F.C.) played at various grounds including Stoke Road. The move to Highfield provided the club with a more permanent and suitable home. The stadium underwent several phases of development and redevelopment throughout its history. Early stands were primarily wooden structures, gradually replaced by concrete and steel constructions as the club grew.

Features:

Over time, Highfield evolved into a stadium with four distinct stands:

• The Main Stand: Located on one side of the pitch, this stand typically housed the directors' box, press facilities, and some seating for supporters.
• The Kop: Known as the home end, it was typically terraced and accommodated the most vocal Coventry City supporters.
• The West Terrace (or the Enclosure): Another terraced area offering standing room for supporters.
• The East Stand (or the Family Stand): A seated stand, often catering to families and away supporters.

Highfield’s capacity fluctuated throughout its history, peaking at over 50,000 in the 1960s. However, following the Hillsborough disaster and the subsequent implementation of the Taylor Report, the stadium was converted to an all-seater stadium, reducing its capacity.

Decline and Demolition:

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, it became increasingly clear that Highfield was no longer suitable for a modern football club. Its limited capacity, outdated facilities, and restrictions on further development led Coventry City to seek a new home. In 2005, the club moved to the Ricoh Arena (now Coventry Building Society Arena). Highfield was subsequently demolished, and the site was redeveloped for housing. The last game played at Highfield was on 30 April 2005 against Derby County.

Legacy:

Despite its eventual demolition, Highfield holds a significant place in the history of Coventry City F.C. It was the club’s home for over a century, witnessing many of their most memorable moments, including their FA Cup triumph in 1987. It remains fondly remembered by many Coventry City supporters.