The final design for a new memorial to remember Nottinghamshire’s fallen from the First World War has been chosen.
The monument is part of the 100 year centenary commemorations of the 1914 to 1918 First World War and was unveiled on Monday after a public consultation.
The winning design by Letts Wheeler Architects will display the names of the 14,000 soldiers, sailors, airmen and civilians at Victoria Embankment, Nottingham.
It will form a roll of honour for armed services fatalities from the whole of the county and will be the first of its kind. Nottingham City, Nottinghamshire County and district and borough councils are working together on the project.
The chosen memorial is an elevated, circular design which has a five metre-high monument in the middle, explaining its purpose. Lighting underneath holes for poppies to be placed during events will create an effect at night for visitors.
It is the first time the names of all those who fell in the conflict will have their names honoured in one place. Currently many are scattered across different memorials in the city and county.
Nottingham City Council said the winning design, one of three options to be shortlisted, was the favourite among public and politicians in the consultation.
Around £50,000 still needs to be raised for the project. Local businesses and residents from across Nottinghamshire are being encouraged to contribute online.
Colonel Tim Richmond, Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, said: “I believe this memorial which honours the fallen from our city and county will be a fitting tribute to their sacrifice.
“Bringing together the names from some 700 memorials, others which have never been recorded on a memorial, together with the County’s Roll of Honour which is online, records the details of all those who died their names will truly live for evermore.”
Councillor Jon Collins, Leader of Nottingham City Council, said: “The proposed memorial is a respectful and fitting tribute to the fallen of Nottinghamshire.
“The little details like space for poppies show that a lot of thought and consideration has gone into this design, so now the fundraising efforts are important to make this a reality.”
Councillor Kay Cutts, Leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “The winning design was the overwhelming favourite amongst everyone I spoke to and I am delighted it has been chosen.
“It will serve as a powerful and poignant reminder about the ultimate sacrifice those 14,000 people made for us. I sincerely hope the public and businesses of Nottinghamshire get behind the project by making a donation, however small, to help us make this wonderful memorial a reality.”
The memorial is being commissioned by Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire County Council, working with the seven district and borough councils, Gedling, Rushcliffe, Newark and Sherwood, Bassetlaw, Ashfield, Broxtowe and Mansfield.
