Sunday, January 15, 2012

Carillon tower War Memorial Queen's Park Charnwood Council Photograph



In June 1899, Queen's Park was opened by Mr W.B.Paget to celebrate Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee and to promote a healthy town. Four acres of land were laid out as a park. In 1902 the Bandstand was officially opened, and by 1914 it had been moved to it's current position. Between 1905 and 1907 an additional 6 acres of land were acquired from the adjoining dye works and development continued. In 1916 the final piece land was purchased to complete the park as the size and shape we know it today. On 22nd January 1922 the foundation stones were laid for the Carillon tower which was opened on 27th July 1923.By 1928 the stone balustrade around the Carillon tower was in place as well as the ornate New Street gate. Since this time the park has remained largely unchanged in its layout.