St James Park in Shirley

St James’ Park is located in Shirley between St James Road, Winchester Road and Wordsworth Road. The popular park covers 2 hectares and has an interesting history and heritage which is being uncovered as part of the Parks for People application. It is understood the land was originally set aside for the development of a railway station or siding along a proposed route from the waterfront. Historical maps show that the site was used as a nursery in 1865 and by 1910 use had changed to a gravel pit. Council archives record that the land was bought in 1907 following a petition from residents and ratepayers for the provision of a recreation ground in the Shirley area. By 1911 the area was landscaped and formally opened as a park.

The project planning work was supported by the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund and Big Lottery Fund.

The park currently includes a play area, toilets, kiosk, tennis courts and large open grass area. The kiosk was recently opened by the Friends of St James’ Park following a refurbishment of the building with the council. The toilet has also been re-opened to the great satisfaction of many park users. These improvements were the first stage of a longer park improvement plan, we have now been successful in securing additional funding to carry out further improvements with the Friends group and other park users.

• Exciting times ahead for St James >

• Friends of St. James Park >