NORMANTON PARK
NORMANTON
Normanton Park is on the southern side of the city of Derby. It is situated in the suburb of Normanton and is approximately two miles south of the city centre. Neighbouring suburbs include Littleover and Pear Tree. The location of the original village lies just south of Derby Ring Road, where there has been a settlement for over 1,000 years. Normanton was mentioned in the Domesday Book and its main thoroughfare is commemorated by the present-day Village Street.
PARK LOCATION
The park is located on the eastern side of Warwick Avenue. There is a car park on the northern side of the park by the side of Ring Road. This is accessed off Colwyn Avenue. There are also foot entrances from Chatsworth Street and Fairfield Road.
THE PARK
All the main paths are tree-lined and provide a leafy oasis, where visitors can unwind from the stresses of modern-day living. There are football pitches available, an artificial cricket wicket and practice facilities together with a multi-use sports area. Further information can be obtained from Derby City Parks Department. In addition, the park provides a children’s play area and café. The Derbyshire Tennis Centre is adjacent to the allotments by Normanton Park. There is disabled access to the park and level paths suitable for wheelchair users.
HISTORY
Normanton Rec as it is still frequently called is now known officially as Normanton Park. It was developed on the site of old brickyards and opened in 1909, to provide a place where local people could relax and enjoy fresh air, in a heavily populated area. The park links ‘Old Normanton’ with the newer and rapidly expanding industrial, inner-urban Normanton.
Part of its southern boundary was lost to Warwick Avenue when the Ring Road was built, but tree planting helped to soften the gap that had been created. During the Second World War, trenches were dug in the park as temporary air raid shelters. The trees are now well-established and there are wide pathways around the park. Following repeated vandalism, the park was substantially refurbished.
