Campbell Park

Introduction

“This central park should become the jewel in the crown” was the prediction of an early guidebook to Milton Keynes.

Originally referred to as the “City Park”, Campbell Park was at the centre of the new city and an integral part of the vision for Milton Keynes from the earliest stages of its design. Careful comparisons were made with other city’s parks: St James, Regents and Richmond Park in London and Central Park in New York. The landscape designers took inspiration from 18^th-century country houses, European sculpture parks and the garden cities of Letchworth and Welwyn.

The Vision

The City Park was to include many features. It would have, according to early outlines contain; a rivulet walk for children, a water carpet, a glass bridge, a grotto and tunnel to a children’s ship and castle, a night scented garden, room for a pub and a cafe, an international sculpture centre, a grass bowl for events and a belvedere with extensive views.

In 1975, the MKDC executive committee welcomed these imaginative ideas but acknowledged that implementation depended on the availability of finance. While preparations and plans for the park changed with the political and financial circumstances of the time, the underlying concept of a new city park for the people of a new city remained.

As Milton Keynes grew, and as the Development Corporation set about persuading companies to relocate here, the “Park Grid Square” was staunchly defended against alternative uses. Here is Bob Hill, Commercial Director of the MKDC, on protecting the park from commercial incursions.

Interview with Bob Hill

The natural contours of the fields would have been visible from the helicopter, dropping down towards the canal and River Ouzel, exaggerated by the line of the hedgerows and standard trees. Using the spoil from the excavation works from the adjacent grid road and shopping centre building, this arable landscape was transformed into sweeping curves, gentle slopes, and steep embankments. The resulting parkland has retained much of the original design with its water features and a Belvedere offering extensive views of the surrounding countryside.

Campbell Park today

Since 2020, Campbell Park has been listed by Historic England as a Grade II Park and Garden. The list entry recognises the park’s historic interest, unique design, and careful preservation by its custodians through changing social and environmental circumstances.

Looking to the future, the Campbell Wharf development is bringing new users and audiences to the Park.  As development continues to surround it on the north and south sides, this increase in use by residents will see it achieve its original aim as an urban, city park.

To find out more about Campbell Park – visit the Parks Trust website.